Lunin or Courtois: Ancelotti confirms starting goalkeeper for UCL final

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed his starting goalkeeper for the 2024 Champions League final when Real Madrid take on Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium. 

Andriy Lunin filled in commendably for Thibaut Courtois when the Belgian suffered a serious knee injury before the season’s commencement, even if he had to displace Chelsea loanee Kepa Arrizabalaga first. 

Lunin’s decent-to-good performances between the sticks since November 2023  created a question for Los Blancos, who were assured of Courtois returning for the business end of 2023-24. 

The 32-year-old Belgian started four LaLiga matches in the closing weeks, keeping clean sheets against Cadiz, Granada, Alaves and Real Betis, thus increasing his prospects for a Champions League final appearance at Lunin's expense. 

Speaking to the media before Saturday’s final, Ancelotti revealed the club’s first-choice goalkeeper will play from the off particularly due to Lunin’s illness. 

“Lunin has been suffering from flu and hasn't been able to travel or train,” said the Real Madrid boss. “He's travelling tomorrow and will be on the bench, so Courtois will start."

Real Madrid are seeking a 15th European Cup against Dortmund, aiming to record only their second title to add to their 1997 success against Juventus.