MADRID, Oct. 25 -- Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has been ruled out of Sunday's La Liga Clasico away to FC Barcelona after suffering a virus, the club confirmed.

"Courtois is a last-minute absence due to a flu-like illness for tonight's match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, corresponding to the tenth matchday of La Liga. Illia Voloshyn has been called up in his place," Real Madrid said in a statement on its official website.

Andriy Lunin is expected to replace Courtois in goal, with the Belgian's absence dealing a significant blow to Jose Mourinho's side after a series of impressive performances this season.

Real Madrid heads into the match at Camp Nou six points behind league leader Barcelona, which has won all nine of it...