Carlo Ancelotti has taken a cautious approach when it comes to the return of Thibaut Courtois, refusing to speculate on the goalkeeper’s potential participation in a Champions League final. Despite confirming that Courtois will start for Real Madrid in LaLiga on Saturday against Cádiz, Ancelotti remains focused on the immediate future without looking too far ahead.
The impressive back-up
During Courtois’ absence, Andriy Lunin has stepped up as the back-up goalkeeper for Real Madrid. With the best save percentage in LaLiga among goalkeepers who have played 10 or more games, Lunin has proven to be a reliable option for Ancelotti. As a result, Ancelotti has confirmed that Lunin will retain his place for next week’s Champions League semifinal second leg against Bayern Munich.
Ancelotti on Courtois’ return
Speaking in a news conference, Ancelotti expressed his excitement at having Courtois back in the team after a long season out due to an ACL tear. He confirmed that Courtois will start in the upcoming LaLiga match against Cádiz and praised the goalkeeper’s eagerness to return to action. Ancelotti highlighted the positive impact Courtois’ return will have on the team.
While there is speculation about Courtois potentially playing in a Champions League final at Wembley on June 1, Ancelotti remains focused on the immediate task at hand. With the Champions League semifinal second leg against Bayern Munich coming up, Ancelotti is adamant that Lunin will retain his place in goal. Ancelotti emphasized that the final they are currently focused on is the one against Bayern.
Real Madrid has faced significant injury setbacks this season, with multiple long-term ACL injuries affecting key players. Defenders Éder Militão and David Alaba have also been sidelined due to similar injuries. Ancelotti remains focused on the present and has refrained from speculating about Courtois’ potential involvement in a future final.
LaLiga title aspirations
Real Madrid is in contention to clinch the LaLiga title, with the possibility of sealing the title on Saturday if results go their way. However, Ancelotti remains grounded and has stated that there are no plans for a celebratory parade at this time. The focus is on the immediate future and taking it one game at a time.
Ancelotti’s cautious approach to Courtois’ return reflects his mindset of focusing on the present moment and not getting ahead of himself. With key matches on the horizon, including the Champions League semifinal second leg, Ancelotti’s decision to stick with Lunin shows his trust in the back-up goalkeeper. Real Madrid’s injury struggles this season have tested the team’s depth, but Ancelotti remains optimistic about the challenges ahead.
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