Real Madrid News
Real Madrid 25-year-old ace edging closer to an exit this summer
Despite being initially ranked lowest in the pecking order last season, Andriy Lunin emerged as Real Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper for a significant portion of the campaign.
After Thibaut Courtois’ injury, Lunin took over from Kepa Arrizabalaga and delivered consistent, solid performances that earned the coaching staff’s trust.
However, Courtois’ return from injury has complicated matters for Lunin. No longer is Lunin assured a starting role and given his high-quality displays last season, the Ukrainian is seeking more game time elsewhere.
One foot out of Real Madrid
As such, according to AS, Andriy Lunin is edging closer to an exit from Real Madrid. The final decision on his departure will largely hinge on the offers that his agent, Jorge Mendes, is able to secure for the club.
Courtois’ return to full fitness, particularly for crucial matches like the UEFA Champions League final, highlighted Lunin’s secondary role.
In light of his increased status and the high degree of competition he faces in the Spanish Capital, Lunin is looking to part ways with the Merengues.
His desire to leave is evident from his decision to return to training early and cut his vacation short, aiming to be in top condition for potential future teams.
With just one year remaining on Lunin’s deal, the Merengues would prefer to retain him rather than demand a massive transfer fee, but they will accept his decision if he decides to hit the exit door.
Chelsea could be a possible destination
Reports have argued that Real Madrid shot-stopper Andriy Lunin is on the verge of joining Chelsea, but that does not appear to be the case.
There are other clubs from the Premier League that seem to have shown an interest in the 25-year-old Ukrainian as well.
In any case, time will tell how the saga develops. For now, it seems more likely that Lunin will leave Real Madrid rather than remain with the club.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
