The guys in white were pushed to the limit during Real Madrid’s 4–4 draw with Real Sociedad in the second leg of the Copa del Rey quarter final earlier this week. Ultimately, though, they did guarantee their place in the Spanish Cup final.
However, given that the squad played 120 minutes that evening, it is evident that the game had an impact on the team’s exhausted players and their ability to recuperate before their league matchup with Valencia.
Lunin played with discomfort for the rest of the match after getting hurt in the 50th minute against Real Sociedad. The Ukrainian goalie is now anticipated to miss four weeks of play, according to El Chiringuito.
Andriy Lunin injury update
🚨NEW: Andriy Lunin could be OUT for 4 weeks.
The club is considering to give him injections to play vs Valencia. @elchiringuitotv pic.twitter.com/38hzbmGoqT
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) April 3, 2025
During the game against Real Sociedad, the Ukrainian goalie tore his soleus muscle. Medical examinations verified the extent of the injuries even though the player completed the game. Medical reports suggest that his presence is quite improbable unless he plays under infiltration, which would be extremely risky, even if the club has not formally ruled him out.
Courtois’ Uncertain Return
After suffering an injury during the international break, the Belgian goalie is still undergoing rehab. Inflammation still exists despite his improved condition, thus the club has chosen to focus on his complete comeback rather than rush his recovery. Given his history of injuries at the club, it appears highly unlikely that he will play in the upcoming games.
The scenario is tricky for Carlo Ancelotti, who might be without his two best goalkeepers against Valencia.
Chance For the 19 year old to Shine?
This could also be a chance to lend an opportunity to 19-year-old Fran Gonzalez to make his debut. The teenager is highly rated at Valdebebas, but has never played for Los Blancos. He has played a little over half of Real Madrid Castilla’s games this season, appearing 16 times, conceding 19 goals and keeping three clean sheets.
Previously he has been spoken about as a potential long-term successor to Courtois, and Gonzalez has been training with the senior side for the past two seasons.
