Real Madrid’s preparations for their Champions League quarter-final showdown against Arsenal have taken a hit, with goalkeeper Andriy Lunin’s availability hanging in the balance. The Ukrainian shot-stopper, initially named in the squad for last weekend’s La Liga clash against Valencia, remained in Spain to continue his recovery from a lingering leg injury.
As Carlo Ancelotti’s side gears up for Tuesday’s high-stakes clash in London, fans are left wondering: will Lunin be fit to feature, or will Real Madrid’s goalkeeping crisis deepen?
Courtois steps up as Andriy Lunin’s status remains clouded
Real Madrid’s injury woes have forced Ancelotti into a pragmatic decision. With Lunin still sidelined due to discomfort in his leg—sustained during the recent league win over Leganes—the Spanish giants will rely on Thibaut Courtois to guard the net against Arsenal.
Though Courtois himself is returning from a muscular injury picked up on international duty with Belgium, the Belgian veteran has been deemed fit enough to start. Club sources confirm Andriy Lunin has not recovered in time, ruling him out of the quarter-final.
The situation leaves Madrid with no margin for error. Thibaut Courtois, while lacking match sharpness after his own layoff, brings experience to a defense already stretched thin. Injuries to Aurélien Tchouaméni (suspended), Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy further compound Ancelotti’s selection headaches, forcing tactical adjustments like David Alaba’s shift to left-back.
Lunin’s absence underscores Madrid’s reliance on their backup options. Teenage goalkeeper Fran González, likened to Gianluigi Buffon for his towering 6’6” frame and agility, made his first-team debut against Valencia amid the crisis. However, González is unlikely to feature in the Champions League, with Ancelotti prioritizing Courtois’ pedigree for the European stage.
While Andriy Lunin’s recovery timeline remains unclear, his absence against Arsenal signals Madrid’s cautious approach. The Ukrainian’s recent bench role against Valencia—where he was listed as a substitute but unused—suggests the club is prioritizing his long-term fitness over rushing him back. For now, Thibaut Courtois’ comeback becomes the focal point as Real Madrid aim to stifle Arsenal’s attack.
With the Gunners boasting one of Europe’s most potent offenses, Ancelotti’s gamble on Courtois’ readiness could define this tie. As one insider noted, “Injuries have forced Madrid’s hand, but Courtois’ presence brings a sliver of reassurance.”