Courtois and Valverde set to miss Copa del Rey clash with Real Sociedad

Real Madrid are preparing to face Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final without two key players, Thibaut Courtois and Federico Valverde.

The decision by coach Carlo Ancelotti is part of the club's efforts to avoid further physical problems at this crucial stage of the season. 

Valverde has accumulated 3,387 minutes in 40 games this season and Ancelotti has decided to manage the Uruguayan's workload by leaving him out of the game.

The midfielder's absence gives Ancelotti the opportunity to rotate his squad and give minutes to other options in Los Blancos' midfield.

Also, Courtois' absence serves a dual purpose as it allows the Belgian to recover and gives Andriy Lunin the opportunity to get game time. 

Neither player is expected to travel to San Sebastian for the match, highlighting Madrid's commitment to their fitness management strategy.