An insight into the expected knock-on effect of the injury setback suffered by Real Madrid star Thibaut Courtois on backup Andriy Lunin has today been provided.
The name of Belgian international Courtois has of course taken its place front and centre in the headlines in Spain’s capital over the course of the last 24 hours.
This comes after word was forthcoming that the 32-year-old has been dealt a considerable personal blow.
Amid ongoing efforts to ramp up his recovery from an ACL injury suffered last August, Courtois was forced to limp out of training at Valdebebas on Tuesday.
And, following an ensuing round of medical tests, it was confirmed that the former Chelsea man has been ‘diagnosed with a ruptured internal meniscus in his right knee’.
Courtois, as a result, is expected to miss the best part of the next two months, all but bringing an end to his season.
So, what does as much mean for the goalkeeper situation at the Santiago Bernabéu?
As per a report from Relevo, Carlo Ancelotti’s plan had been to restore Courtois to no.1 duties as soon as the Belgian felt ready to contribute.
Stand-in Andriy Lunin, however, ‘will now start until the end of the campaign in all Champions League and League matches until elimination or winning the title’.
At this point, loanee Kepa Arrizabalaga would be afforded a rare opportunity to impress.
Courtois’ impending absence will not only affect Lunin’s playing time, however.
In addition, it is expected to have an impact on the Ukrainian’s future beyond the summer.
It is of course common knowledge that Lunin’s contract with Real Madrid is due to expire in a little over 12 months’ time.
Previous reports in the media had pointed towards the 25-year-old’s playing time, or rather lack thereof, over the term’s final months as likely to prove telling in negotiations between the parties.
Had Lunin simply been left to watch on from the bench on a weekly basis following Courtois’ return, it is understood that the nine-time capped international would have given serious consideration to a departure.
The Blancos brass are keen to tie their no.2 down for the long-term, readying a contract offer over the coming weeks as a result.
And, in line to not only feature prominently, but also potentially prove himself legitimate competition for a Courtois whose long-term fitness prospects are now looking uncertain, Lunin intends to stay put, but on his terms.
Conor Laird | GSFN
