Two soccer goalkeepers with a purple, starry background; one of them is wearing the Real Madrid uniform.
SOCCER

Thibaut Courtois warns Andriy Lunin, more competition: 'He has offered himself to Real Madrid'

The Merengues' goal is very well covered, but Lunin has already been warned

Real Madrid has started the season in outstanding fashion. One of the keys to this performance has undoubtedly been the goalkeeping position, where Thibaut Courtois is once again making a difference. The Belgian goalkeeper has regained his best form, delivering secure and decisive performances that give confidence to the entire backline.

Thibaut Courtois brings leadership, calm, and experience, all essential factors for a team aiming for every title. In contrast, Andriy Lunin, his backup, is barely getting any opportunities, relegated to a testimonial role and waiting for his chance on the bench.

Thibaut Courtois celebrating with Andriy Lunin pensive with his hand on his chin
Lunin lives in Courtois's shadow | Europa Press

Andriy Lunin is in trouble

Andriy Lunin is a reliable goalkeeper, but he knows perfectly well that his role is secondary at Real Madrid. The coaching staff fully trust Thibaut Courtois, who has thoroughly earned his status as an undisputed starter. However, the calm in the white goal could be disrupted in the coming months.

According to recent reports, Vladyslav Krapyvtsov, a young Ukrainian goalkeeper from Girona, has made his way onto the white club's radar. At 20 years old, the goalkeeper is one of the world's top prospects thanks to his composure, reflexes, and personality. His progression has been meteoric, and his camp has already made moves to offer him directly to Real Madrid ahead of next summer.

This news has come as a cold shower for Andriy Lunin. The Real Madrid goalkeeper trusted that his moment would come when Courtois's level dropped. However, the possibility that the club has set their sights on Vladyslav Krapyvtsov has sparked his unease and discomfort.

Xabi Alonso and Florentino Pérez argue

Sources close to the locker room assure that Xabi Alonso fully trusts Andriy Lunin. The Basque coach believes that his backup has the level required to take on the starting role at any moment. However, the sporting management, led by Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez, are studying the market with a longer-term vision.

Andriy Lunin with the green Real Madrid goalkeeper shirt asking for a ball
Xabi trusts Lunin even though the starter is Courtois | Europa Press

This is where Vladyslav Krapyvtsov comes into play, as he has become one of the top goalkeeping prospects in Europe. He arrived at Girona in 2024 and in just a few months has caught the attention of several major clubs. His playing style, combining bravery in one-on-one situations and good footwork, fits perfectly with the profile Real Madrid is seeking for the future.

Vladyslav Krapyvtsov's agents have already taken the initiative. According to reports, they have offered the goalkeeper to Real Madrid and other major clubs, but the player would have given priority to the white team. For him, wearing the Bernabéu jersey would be a dream and a unique opportunity to be a starter at the Bernabéu.

➡️ Real Madrid ➡️ Soccer

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