Arsenal handed HUGE injury boost ahead of Real Madrid clash.
Arsenal have been handed a significant boost ahead of their Champions League quarter-final showdown against Real Madrid
Arsenal have been handed a significant boost ahead of their Champions League quarter-final showdown against Real Madrid, as the Spanish giants face uncertainty in their goalkeeping department.
Real Madrid’s goalkeeping crisis deepened after Andriy Lunin, who has been deputising for the injured Thibaut Courtois, reportedly sustained a minor soleus muscle tear. The Ukrainian shot-stopper is now in doubt for Saturday’s La Liga clash against Valencia and could potentially miss the first leg against Arsenal next week.
Lunin’s injury comes as a major setback for Carlo Ancelotti, who had turned to the 25-year-old following Courtois’ setback during the international break. According to El Chiringuito de Jugones, Real Madrid are considering administering an injection to enable Lunin to play, but if that approach fails, Ancelotti may be forced to rely on third-choice goalkeeper Fran González.
González, currently the starting keeper for Real Madrid Castilla, has yet to make a senior appearance for the first team in La Liga. His potential inclusion in goal for such a high-stakes fixture would be a huge test of his ability at the highest level.
Real Madrid’s recent Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Real Sociedad further complicated matters. The 4-4 draw saw Los Blancos pushed to their limits, playing 120 minutes before eventually securing a spot in the final. However, the extended match took its toll on the squad, with fatigue and injuries now piling up ahead of their domestic and European commitments.
Spanish journalist Jorge C. Picón reported that Lunin left the game against Real Sociedad with noticeable discomfort and remains far from fully fit. His muscle strain persisted even on Real Madrid’s rest day, raising concerns about his availability for the crucial matches ahead.
A final decision regarding Lunin’s involvement against Valencia will be made during Friday’s training session. With Courtois ruled out until at least next week, Ancelotti will be hoping for a swift recovery for his second-choice keeper.