Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Andriy Lunin will stay at Real Madrid this season even though his contract will expire next year.
The Ukrainian goalkeeper stepped into the void left by the injured Thibaut Courtois last year, taking the gloves in the previous election to support Kepa Arrizabalaga and making crucial saves on the club’s path to La Liga and the Champions League double.
Lunin has made no secret of his desire to play regular first-team football this summer but has recently made a decision on his future, reportedly ready to fulfill his current contract before leaving on a free transfer next year.
The plan appears to have been confirmed by Ancelotti, who will name the 25-year-old as his goalkeeper for the 2024/25 season.
Speaking after Madrid’s 3-0 win over Real Valladolid, Ancelotti revealed: “Yes, he will stay.”
Kepa initially filled in in Courtois’ absence but some shaky displays led to the Spaniard losing his place. Los Blancos have been rumored to be returning to the Bernabeu for another season-long loan, but he is now set to sign for Premier League side Bournemouth.
Courtois is back in Madrid’s starting XI and will have no international commitments to distract him after announcing he will not play in Belgium while manager Domenico Tedesco is in charge.
Writing on Instagram, he revealed: “I want to talk to the Belgian fans and supporters of our national team.
“I feel a lot of love and pride for representing my country on the field, along with all of you who support the Red Devils. I feel very happy to receive the medal to wear the national jersey. Even in my wildest dreams I couldn’t. They thought they could do it more than a hundred times.
“Unfortunately, following the events with the coach and after careful consideration, I decided not to return to the national team of Belgium under his management. In this matter, I accept my share. However, looking forward, my lack of confidence would not contribute to maintaining the necessary state of compassion.
“The Federation, with whom I have discussed many times, accepts my position and the reasons that led me to this painful but compatible decision. I regret to disappoint some fans, but I am convinced that this is the best course for Belgium, as it closes the debate and allows the team to focus on the pursuit of goals of it.
READ THE LATEST REAL MADRID NEWS, FOLLOW THE MASSES AND GOSSIP
Source link
