Ancelotti likely to retain Real Madrid veteran over 26-year-old star in cup final vs Barcelona | OneFootball

As Real Madrid gear up for their upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, there has been much debate about the goalkeeping position.

Up until now, Andriy Lunin has been the regular for Real Madrid in between the sticks, showcasing stellar displays.

Given his role as a cup goalkeeper, it was given that the 26-year-old Ukrainian may start against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final.

Courtois to get the nod ahead of Lunin

According to SPORT, it appears Ancelotti is unlikely to play Lunin this weekend and has instead put his faith in Thibaut Courtois.

It’s a scenario that feels eerily familiar to last season’s Champions League final, where Lunin had been the main man in goal throughout the knockout rounds, only to be benched in the final upon Courtois’ return from injury.

This time around, too, Lunin will have the settle for a place on the bench to make way for Courtois.

Lunin will have to settle for a place on the bench. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Lunin has started each of Real Madrid’s five Copa del Rey matches this season. The Ukrainian has also featured in five La Liga games and two Champions League ties, offering solid performances whenever called upon.

At the same time, though, one can hardly argue with Ancelotti’s deciison either as Courtois has been a saviour for the club time and time again.

Given Real Madrid’s poor track record against Barcelona this season, the onus will be on the Belgian to keep a valued cleaned.

Courtois was able to keep a clean sheet in Real Madrid’s most recent win over Getafe, where he notably commended the team spirit after such a win.