Real Madrid is staring into a goalkeeping abyss ahead of a pivotal stretch in their season, as yet another name joins the injury list at the worst possible time. As Los Blancos prepare to host Valencia this weekend and face Arsenal in a titanic UEFA Champions League quarter-finals just days later, the situation between the posts has turned into a full-blown crisis.
Carlo Ancelotti’s backup plan to injured first-choice goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was Andriy Lunin, but now even that safety net appears compromised. The Ukrainian shot-stopper suffered a leg injury after Madrid’s Copa del Rey win over Real Sociedad, and Relevo reports he is now experiencing pain that places his availability in serious doubt.
Lunin, who had impressed since stepping in for Courtois, is believed to have suffered a minor soleus muscle tear. According to El Chiringuito TV, the injury occurred in the 50th minute of the Copa del Rey semi-final, and recovery could take up to four weeks. While the club is considering pain-killing injections to possibly push him through the weekend’s clash, that comes with its own risks — including the chance of aggravating the injury further.
“We have to be positive and think we can do it. We’re very close in all competitions and we’re confident,” said Ancelotti in an attempt to lift the mood ahead of Saturday’s crucial La Liga fixture.
Courtois still not ready
Meanwhile, Thibaut Courtois remains unavailable as he continues his rehabilitation following a muscle problem sustained during warm-ups for Belgium’s friendly against Ukraine over the international break. He has already missed key games, including Madrid’s league match against Leganés and the second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final.
The plan, according to multiple reports, is to have Courtois return in time for the Champions League tie against Arsenal. However, this hinges on the medical staff successfully navigating his recovery over the next few days.
The mystery solution: Who is Fran Gonzalez?
With both Courtois and Lunin in doubt, the door could open for an unproven but highly touted youngster. That player is 19-year-old Fran Gonzalez, who has quietly impressed behind the scenes at Valdebebas.
Standing over two meters tall, Gonzalez has been training with the senior squad for two years and is known for his calm demeanor and sharp reflexes. He has featured in 16 games for Real Madrid Castilla this season, registering three clean sheets and conceding 19 goals.
Despite having never made a first-team appearance, the Spaniard has earned the full trust of the coaching staff, particularly goalkeeping coach Luis Llopis, who has reportedly taken a personal interest in his development.
“I have total confidence in Fran,” Ancelotti said ahead of the weekend clash. “He’s a great goalkeeper. The only issue is that he’s young, but one day his time will come.” That day may now be here.
