Real Madrid News
A statistical look at how Real Madrid have fared in UCL with Andriy Lunin in goal
Real Madrid are set to face Bayern Munich in a high-stakes UEFA Champions League quarter-final without one of their most crucial figures – Thibaut Courtois.
The Belgian goalkeeper’s absence across both legs forces a significant change between the sticks, with Andriy Lunin set to take over responsibility in what is arguably the biggest test of his Real Madrid career so far.
While losing Courtois is undeniably a setback, Lunin is no stranger to stepping up when called upon.
This season, the Ukrainian shot-stopper is set to make his third appearance in this season’s Champions League campaign.
In fact, he has already featured in the group stage clash against Olympiacos and also played a role in the knockout stages, coming on during the second leg against Manchester City, the same match where Courtois was injured.
Despite limited opportunities, Lunin has built a reputation as a reliable backup, one capable of delivering when the pressure is at its highest.
Real Madrid’s record with Lunin
Looking at the bigger picture, his record in Europe offers optimism for Real Madrid.
Simply put, across the last four seasons, Lunin has played 14 Champions League matches, registering seven wins, five draws, and just two defeats.
Those losses came during last season’s group stage, against Lille and AC Milan.
Defensively, his numbers remain respectable, having conceded 19 goals in those appearances while also keeping three clean sheets – notably against Braga, RB Leipzig, and during his recent contribution at the Etihad.
Of course, statistics only tell part of the story, as facing Bayern Munich in a Champions League quarter-final is an entirely different challenge.
The German giants possess one of the most dangerous attacking units in Europe, and any margin for error will be minimal.
For Lunin, though, this is an opportunity to prove he can be trusted on the biggest stage.
In the past, he has proved to be a worthy replacement, as everyone remembers his heroic performance against Manchester City in 2024.
Real Madrid News
Manchester United launch final push to sign Real Madrid outcast; club resists permanent exit
Manchester United are stepping up their pursuit of Endrick as the Brazilian forward’s future at Real Madrid becomes increasingly uncertain, with a potential January loan move emerging as a solution to his lack of regular playing time.
According to Bernabeu Digital, Manchester United are making a final push to convince the 19-year-old to join them.
However, negotiations could prove complicated because the Premier League club is interested in including a purchase option in the deal, while Real Madrid are not currently planning to give up permanent control of the striker.
Endrick’s limited opportunities under Jose Mourinho this season have opened the door to a temporary departure, with AC Milan and Tottenham also emerging as potential destinations.
Why Manchester United want Endrick?
Manchester United are looking for greater attacking productivity and believe Endrick could provide a different dimension to their forward line.
The Premier League club has also been linked with the Brazilian in the past, as they assess options to improve their goalscoring output after a poor start to the season.
Notably, his situation at Real Madrid makes a move more plausible, as Endrick has struggled to secure consistent minutes, and the club is considering a loan that would give him the chance to play regularly.
However, United’s preferred terms could become the biggest obstacle.
The English side reportedly wants the option to buy Endrick at the end of the loan, potentially giving them a route to a permanent transfer if he impresses.
Real Madrid reject permanent Endrick exit
Real Madrid’s preference is understood to be a straightforward loan without a purchase option.
The club want Endrick to gain experience elsewhere before returning to compete for a place in the squad, rather than risk losing a young forward they have invested in for the future.
His previous loan spell at Lyon provides a possible model for another temporary move, although any agreement would depend on the terms offered and the player’s own preferences.
Manchester United are prepared to make an attractive financial proposal in an effort to secure his arrival, but money alone may not resolve the disagreement if Real Madrid remain unwilling to include a purchase clause.
