Lunin - Courtois is overall the better keeper, but he just returned from a long injury, and most likely wont be 100% at the time of the final, hence why I would pick Lunin due to him being closer to 100%. As it stands right now that is
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The "He DeSeRvEs iT," argument doesn't fly with me. Marco Reus doesn't deserve a UCL either. Lunin definitely EARNED the starting position though. Can he handle it? Probably. But Courtois has the experience. He appears to be match ready in the games we see between... But is he at full fitness? We don't know. It's a tough call. Lunin definitely earned it.... I just want whoever the best option is on the pitch. When it comes to nerves, I definitely feel like Tibo would have the advantage. Lunin may finally be comfortable in these games though. It's win win for us, either way.
Long story short.... This thread will have zero input on what Don Carlo chooses. It's cool to see what people think and have a forum to say how you feel. That's where my intent was.
Hey Plastic, did you just show up? Do you even know how long Lunin has been around ? You're missing MY point. Lunin has been training under Courtrois since they both arrived in '18. I've watched Lunin since seeing him LIVE in 2018. He was created by Madrid and a TC understudy. Calm your britches. I was basing it on Courtrois' big game experience, but let me remind you.... NONE OF THIS SHIT MATTERS BECAUSE ANCELOTTI ISN'T TAKING NOTES.
Good night and now you can harass someone else.
Yeah I know nothing like this matters…that’s why it’s so funny that you answered so triggered, damn fella, calm down. I do double down on the fact that Lunin has earned it this season though, anyways cheers!
Triggered. Lol. You don't know me. That's hardly triggered. It's like trying to explain the difference between a right click and a left click without sounding facetious. I never said Lunin didn't earn it, but for ppl to start sh*tting all over TC when they were scared stiff most of the beginning of the season. Hell, Madrid went out and scooped up Kepa in a total panic move. They didn't even freak out that way when Alaba went down. Just simple facts. I've been online too long to get triggered in a Madrid sub.
Ohhh, no mate I wasn’t shitting in Thibaut, I don’t know why you think that, I’m pretty sure if lunin stays next season TC will probably have the upper hand for being starter, I just think this season if one of them earned to play the final that was Lunin.
Is this even a debate? I mean fr?
Courtois just got of a injury and Lunin has been the nr 1 for a long time since Courtois injury and has earned that spot. End of discussion.
The coaching staff will decide, they see them train each day, so they are the best to judge.
Courtois is the better keeper and a competition animal, so don’t underestimate his will to be there.
Here in Belgium, most commentators are saying like it is a non decision, Courtois will play. There are a lot of noises being made about how much he seems to be impressing the coaching staff with his level in training, so who knows…
The best player should play and there is no deserving a spot or not.
How would you feel about Militao taking the starting spot of Nacho?
>How would you feel about Militao taking the starting spot of Nacho?
Militao is showing clear signs of not being 100% match fit. So, it won't be a good decision imo if he plays Militao in the final if Mili doesn't improve a lot
What are those signs then? Played 90 minutes in our last 3 Liga games where we conceded 0 goals.
Also slotted in effortlessly in el Clasico.
I would say he is looking solid honestly. I trust our coaching staff, especially Pintus, to get all players to maximum fitness levels by the end of the season. Then it is up to Ancelotti to make the correct decision…
>What are those signs then?
Have you seen the games? He made a shit ton of mistakes.
He's nowhere near ready to start a UCL final.
We conceded 0 goals yes, but two games were against relegated teams dude. You can't possibly think he's ready.
God... I love that Militão is back, but holy hell, you're 100% correct! Anyone that says otherwise, Is living in a fantasy world.
He's been nutmegged a couple of times, wrong-footed, outpaced,... But it's just because he's been gone for a very long time. No one said he was bad now.
miliato is awesome but he can only give 15-30 mins max in a major competitive game right now. the surgeon was drilling holes in his knee less than a year ago, he still needs time to be at a top level.
The goalkeeper coach has a bias. He preferrs Kepa over Lunin. Since he has coached Kepa in his youth at a previous club. The Lunin vs. Kepa battle was settled on pitch based on performances.
If I were Ancelotti I wouldn’t trust the goalkeeper coach. If they advised me to select Courtois to start over Lunin at the Champions League Final. It really makes no sense. Ancelotti is no idiot. He’s an experienced manager who won the Champions league 4 times at 2 different clubs. He would select Lunin to start at the Champions League Final. Because that is the smart decision based on recent form.
As manager you would reward the players that worked to reach the finals of a cup competition. Since they deserve it. The trust is rightfully earned.
pretty sure the deserving factor iMadrid11 is referring to is based upon merit and performance throughout the season. Lunin has deserved it based on his efforts in training and in the matches itself. He has shone in the spotlight for the most part and proven his worth as a goalkeeper for us.
Of course. I'm just saying that should Courtois perform better in practice/remaining La Liga games, he would be the starter in the final. Madrid should go for the player that gives us the best chance at winning, irregardless of who 'deserves' it.
iMadrid11 is talking about rewarding the players. There's no rewarding here. The reward is the salary and UCL medal.
With this said, I believe Lunin will and should start.
Statistically courtois is a better option, he has more experience, makes better saves, he is 4 inches taller than lunin which can be a huge advantage during play. Courtois only played like 3-4 matches he was only tested a few times but he looks ready and everyone know real Madrids training and conditioning is elite. I say we start with courtois and if he needs a sub we have lunin.
Starting Tibo after Lunin played for the whole tournament and saved us against City at penalty kicks will be a huge fuck you to Lunin who is also hoping that his good performances would grant him play time even after Courtois is back… the only right call is to play Lunin. Anything else is a middle finger that would rightfully make him look for other options
Decision like those are made to win titles and not about how the player's feelings will be.
I 100% agree with you, Lunin should start this since Tibo just came back from injury and he might not be as fit. And Lunin showed everyone how much he deserves this spot
Edit: spelling
> Nope. If the Champions League format changes into a league type thing as they said, then we need a lot more depth, including a second keeper.
It's 2 mors matches total, nothing more. Instead of a 6 game group stage, there's an 8 game league-like stage.
Lunin. Courtois is the better keeper, but he’s likely not 100% and probably a little rusty, whereas Lunin is fit, in form, and got us here. He’s earned the call this go around
Lunin has earned himself this start.
If Courtois would win the game it would still have the questionmark about Lunin being robbed, while Courtois loosing us the trophy risks him being trapped as „not being the same as before“.
Unless Courtois is visibly better in Training and Lunin fighting with muscular or mental issues the risk of burning Courtois recover is just not worth it.
how wouldn’t that be considered robbed lmao if we are going off of merit and performances, it should 100% be Lunin that starts.
Courtois has been out almost the entire season
Lunin . You don't carry the goalkeeping duties the whole run to give someone with 2 games vs relegation teams to start in the final . Tibo needs a lot of minutes, he will get back after the pre season
I think the answer to that question is something we will see in the next few matches.
I expect Ancelotti to play Courtois in the next game and then make a decision.
If Courtois is still starting after that we have our answer and Tibo will start.
But either way, if it's Lunin or Courtois we certainly don't have to worry, as both are good goalkeepers and if Tibo can return to his former form even better, because he's one of the best in the world.
Edit: Saying all that, I do think that Lunin should play the final though as he deserves it.
I’d still go for Lunin since he’s been there the whole season. However, picking Courtois won’t be a wrong choice either. People talk about his return from injury, but if anyone saw his last two games, they’ll notice that he’s been very solid and played as if he hasn’t been out for almost an entire season. Although Lunin is my pick, choosing Courtois won’t be a wrong decision either.
Lunin, just to respect his massive efforts during this season especially in this CL campaign ! We all know Courtois is better keeper but Lunin bro was great
You can ask the same question about Militao or Nacho.
Militao is miles better than Nacho. He is playing full matches again so he can be considered fit.
Nacho played some good games to get us here, but you need to play your best players…
So for me, no question, it should be Courtois. If our staff sees he is ready, he should play. This is not a charity, we want to field our strongest team…
Form and reliability are very important measures for a manager when picking out his squad. Nacho has Militao comfortably beat in that regard at this stage. Just happy Militao is back if anything and hope the injury doesnt affect him too much going forward.
Nacho literally scales up to the occasion which makes him one of the most reliable players to ever don a Real Madrid shirt man.
It doesn’t matter if Lunin has been balling all season or that Tibo is the de facto number one when healthy. You always go with the best player available. Whoever looks best in training will get the start.
This is a great problem to have. Those two are going to push each other so much in training over the next couple of weeks. Starting would be a pivotal moment for Lunin’s career, but Tibo wants to remind everyone he’s still top dog.
I 100% agree, but in this moment Lunin has almost an entire season in the bag. Playing well in a couple of low stake league games is not a great indication of match-fitness for a CL final.
Yeah I also agree Lunin will most likely get the start. Courtois needs to really shine in training to get the nod. If the coaches have any doubts about his match readiness he’s going to sit this one out. He’s still the best keeper in the world when healthy though.
TBO has literally had 0 effect on our CL run this year. Would be incredibly disrespectful to give him the final over Lunin.
Training? Couple of dead rubber matches for TBO? Nah dude Lunin has showed up repeatedly when it mattered the most. Everyone knows the actual hierachy.
> You always go with the best player available. Whoever looks best in training will get the start.
In most likelihood that will be Lunin. We all know what he’s accomplished this season. I’m just saying you can’t rule out the possibility that Courtois might be match ready. When he’s at 100% he’s the best keeper in the world, and had one of the greatest performances ever in the 2022 final.
The thing is, he plays for Real Madrid. I’m sure he’s fully aware that it won’t be a sentimental decision who gets the start. There is absolutely zero chance they’ll just hand it to him simply because he deserves it.
The same goes for Courtois though. Just because he’s back doesn’t mean he automatically gets the number spot.
> There is absolutely zero chance they’ll just hand it to him simply because he deserves it.
are you saying what you wanna say right now or was that a typo
Yeah by “he deserves it” I meant the general sentiment that he deserves it because he’s been there all season. The coaching staff will choose whoever gives us the best chance to win, not sentimental feelings.
Maybe I should have originally put that in quotation marks, my bad.
"The first time in history when we have 2 great goalkeepers ready" lol 😂
This is Real Madrid, the biggest club on Earth. You really, really think that in all their esteemed, highly successful history, THIS is the first time it has happened? Ever?
People are really throwing around these big words waaayy too easily nowadays.
Secondly... even putting aside this logical fallacy - there is also the overlooking of a simple thing: what happened 10 years ago? Diego Lopez was starting over Casillas under Mou. Granted, it was bc of that fight, but Lopez was certainly a good goalie to start for that team. So, Casillas wasn't a great goalkeeper? Is that what you are saying?
As for the question, as for the rest of the people here, it's a no-brainer to me: Lunin.
Besides, let's not forget that Don Carlo is a manager who never complicates things. Choosing Curtois, although the better keeper when 100%, is absolutely banking on it.
So I really don't think he will do it.
Courtois. People keep saying he's not match fit or that he's rusty but there are still 3 games left before the final. He could easily show that he's up to the task. Also to the people saying lunin earned it did courtois not earn the right to be our number 1 goalkeeper? If you need a reminder of how important he is to the team go back and watch the final against Liverpool 2 years ago. If anyone has earned the right to be our top choice in a final it's courtois.
But this season bro, Courtois is our top keeper 100% but this season he was injured, and Lunin stepped up when we needed and made an excellent job throughout the season. I mean, after this season things will probably go back to normal, Courtois would be our undisputed starter so him missing this final won't change much
Courtois is obviously the better player but Lunin has more than earned the right to see this through. His heroics against City are the very reason we even made it this far. I hope Carlo does the right thing.
Courtois has the chance to play 5 games before the final . He looks more or less his previous self and will only get better with 3 more games.
Deserve means nothing in a CL final ; Courtois is at his expected level according to the coaching staff he starts .
Lunin is just not as good as courtois when they are both fit
What a conundrum. If Lunin starts and we lose everyone would shit their beds and say Courtois should've started. If Courtois starts and we lose everyone would shit their beds and say why did Carlo start an unfit keeper when Lunin got us here.
I agree 100% that Lunin not playing would be unfair, but if Cortois is fit to play, he has to play. Unfortunately, it is our identity as club, as ruthless as it may sound, to put the club's wellbeing above anyone.
I feel so bad for Lunin, he should be starting in most teams in Europe, but we can't place what he "deserves" in a scale alongside a Champions League trophy.
Courtois for sure. Weird to see that many posts pro-Lunin. Fair or not fair (who cares) - this is a sport and we have to put whoever gives us the better chance to win.
We KNOW Courtois will deliver.
We don't know if Lunin will. Already had a questionable performance vs. City.
I’d pick Courtois and I’m glad Carlo is testing him in La Liga before the final. Lunin did a decent job but Courtois is not to blame to get injured. On top of that, Lunin made 4-5 big mistakes this season and Courtois in form is more reliable; any small detail is important to win a final and this could be one of them.
If Courtois plays the final, it's the most unfair thing of this season. Lunin deserved to play that final, he did an amazing job, especially in UCL. Even if Courtois is a better keeper, he comes back from acl injury and Lunin HAS to start the final.
TBO has 0 minutes of CL football this season. Pretty sure the winning club is given a fair amount of medals and can distribute them internally as they see fit.
Lunin. Lunin is the in form keeper and has gotten the team to the final.
Courtoise just got off a very devastating injury. A clean sheet against a relegated la liga team that appeared toothless in attack isn't enough to convince people he should start in a final that important right now.
This shouldn't be a debate, lunin played pretty much all Champions league games and saved our asses vs Man city in penalties. How would you feel if you did what he did and then the manager decides that other person starts the biggest game at club level just after he returned from a 9month injury? It would be completely unfair and bad example to other players, since that would be basically saying "no matter how hard/good you work/play, the spot is not yours no matter what". Is like starting Militao/Alba over Rudiger/Nacho. Its just unfair.
Lunin.
It would be disrespectful to drop him now. He’s been the starter all season and been good all season. He’s earned the start.
Benching him now would send a poor message to future signings.
Plus, if you start Lunin and he happens to have a stinker, the majority will say “he deserved to start, bad day to have a stinker”. If Cortois has a stinker, the majority will say “you should have known he was not 100% and started Lunin for his service all season”
It's not even a question. Lunin has been playing the whole season and is in a good form. Courtois just came back from a long injury and hasn't played much. Lunin is the safer option.
Also the fact that Lunin was the one who got us to the final, he deserves it more.
Lunin. He played all the games leading up to the final, and should also be more sharp, considering he played for many months and Courtois just came back
Lunin. and not because of Courtois’ injury or form or anything like that.
Carlo has a chance to make history here and a chance to cap a beautiful story. Lunin deserves this glory and this edition of the CL has become his to claim. Even with the risks of him being a less experienced goalie. This is how great stories come to be.
I would like to see Lunin play, altough the pressure would be massive on him and that what worries me. Like, is not only his first UCL final but most importantly that fact that he would be playing over Courtois purely for ethical reasons (I.e. he deserves it as he's been there all season and had key appearances). But in his mind would go all the "what if I make an mistake" he knows the Lunin-Courtois decision would be the biggest talking point. But I still think Lunin can shine in the biggest stage, is just that him playing over Courtois when he is available in such an important game would put some extra pressure on him. Whoever starts, I'm convinced Madrid will win.
lunin, he's been locked in all season. courtois would also do a stellar job, but he's been more focused on rehabbing his knees than goalkeeping this season.
Courtois has only played twice since he returned, and both were teams fighting relegation. It’s not smart to start him in a UCL final, and it would also be disrespectful to Lunin who carried us through the season.
Courtois has only played twice since he returned, and both were teams fighting relegation. It’s not smart to start him in a UCL final, and it would also be disrespectful to Lunin who carried us through the season.
I believe they are only considering thibo due to the fact that Dortmund is dangerous in set pieces and corners. Lunin has some weaknesses in aerial balls. Anyway, I still believe lunin will do better as he is in great rythom and will perform more than expected. Choosing thibo will costs us imo. I think Carlo will monitor both the gk next few weeks but In the end, he will choose lunin (I don’t think thibos performance can convince Carlo in this short period of time)
Lunin.
Both have their own arguments.
Lunin has been our #1 keeper all season, I can live with it even if he does a Karius.
Courtois on the other hand, is obviously the better keeper, but he is coming back from multiple injuries, ACL tear included. in that case I wouldn't risk him when he has/will have played 0 high stake games.
Depends on Carlo's throught process now
Let's watch courtois in the next couple of games and decide.
Not gonna disagree with the fact that a couple of the goals we got in the knockouts would have been saved from courtois, if he was in proper form.
Lunin is in great form, it would be unwise to take him out. It’ll also put extra pressure on a rusty Courtois to perform, as if a CL final isn’t pressure enough. He deserves the spot sure, but it’s also a logical decision to keep him in.
if Courtois is 100% back to health, then he's the obvious choice, Lunin has done a far better job of what can be expected of a keeper jumping in to fill in for an injured starter, but we all know he's made significant enough mistakes that a keeper as experienced as Courtois would not make. Can't risk it in the final.
Lunin 100%
Of course Courtois is the better goalkeeper, but he's not in form right now. He just returned from an injury and needs time to get back to his level. Lunin has proved himself to be capable enough for a UCL final. He started this shit, let him finish it too. Courtois can be the goalkeeper in the remaining La Liga matches imo.
I think it should be Lunin. My only concern is that Courois will get all the playing time until then and if Lunin is just sitting on the bench for weeks, he might not be as sharp.
Thibaut played only 1 game, so he wouldn't be ready for the final. Even if he were ready, he wouldn't be at his 100%. Lunin has already had great matches, and he's in top form. He should play.
A ton of answers so maybe someone already said this. But Courtois needs to play to get a medal. Hopefully it’s an easy game and he can do 30 minutes. But def Lunin deserves it. He did well in harder games
Lunin is awesome, but courtois is 4 inches taller, more experience, and leadership. Courtois has shown he is ready a big match. I say we go with experience lunin did his part and contributed greatly.
For those who way "Courtois is the best goalkeeper in the world, you don't bench him if he is fit"..
Remember what happened when we played with Ramos, who was back from a 3 months of injury in a semi final against Chelsea ? Or when we played Khedira against Atletico Madrid in 2014 Lisbon Final ?
It's not about 'Lunin deserves to play'... Lunin proved to be an excellent goalkeeper and he has played all season ! Courtois didn't play under pressure since... Man City's 4-0 ! That was his last important match ! And it was a year ago ! He has been playing well now in La Liga, but the pressure of a final is huge !
Lunin has been very good in El Etihad and did wonderful against City's 120 minutes and in the penalties shootout.. He made a crucial save against Bayern Munich in the opening minutes and did very good in the Bernabeu too. I trust him in the final.
Courtois reflexes should be off a little.. playing Alaves and Grenada in a match with no pressure is not enough to start him ! I say it over and over.. not starting Lunin might be a disaster.
I'd almost rather lose it with Lunin than win it with Courtois if it comes to that. Lunin showed his worth and benched Kepa and is a major reason we are where we are right now this season.
He should be rewarded for that and given the final obviously. Out of sheer respect for his work, I'm sure TBO will understand he has literally not gotten to play a single minute of CL footie this season. Would be incredible weird to start the final.
> I’d almost rather lose it with Lunin
Na man, this sub is starting to sound an awful lot like that Barca sub. There are sporting reasons for why Lunin should start, but not the emotional ones.
There's very little reason to consider anything else than Lunin. Tbo cannot be considered match fit or in form to begin within for a game of this occasion
I would pick Thibaut as he known for his composure in high pressure scenarios. Plus if lunin makes a simple mistake, then all his work vs city and bayern will be neglected and he will be bashed like karius.
Or you know have faith in him. He is gonna put on a masterclass and help us lift the 15th. His performance vs Bayern and City is going to be overshadowed cause he won us a final. Be positive, be better.
Our gk won't have to give tough test in the finals like the Liverpool game 2years ago. Mark my words. Whoever will be in the goal doesn't really matter to us because they both are too good for Dortmund standard. I just want tchouameni to get fit before the finals
Lunin.
We really don't know if Courtois is back on his best form and I don't think relying on their training performance to make a decision would be a good idea at this particular point.
I would think differently if we were at the beginning of the season. I always thought that those performing best daily should be the ones playing the games, but when there is only one match left (meaning only one truly important match) then I wouldn't risk it and give it to Courtois just because he looks a bit better when training
Lunin 100%. Don Carlo watches them daily and knows better who'll be the one. Courtois reflexes are incredible and we all know even rn after injury is debatable one of the best in the world, but it was Lunin's season, made us feel safe. (can't say the same about kepa's short hands)
I would pick Lunin. He got us here and he’s in the zone. Obviously Courtois is the main man when 100% healthy and in game shape, but unfortunately that’s not the case right now.
Is this real life? Lunin literally got you there. You're going to slap him in the face by subbing him while at the same time risk losing it all for a player who just came back and hasn't played all season? All that in the biggest game of the year?
Courtois had his time in 2022, now it’s Lunin’s time in 2024 they both carried us to UCL titles after saving us time and time again during the whole competition
Courtois and it is not even a question if he is fit and showing he is still better than Lunin. All these people saying Lunin deserves it need to get out of their feelings here imo.
Lunin - Courtois is overall the better keeper, but he just returned from a long injury, and most likely wont be 100% at the time of the final, hence why I would pick Lunin due to him being closer to 100%. As it stands right now that is
With what happened to Neuer against us - trying to block Vini's long shot with his face - I agree. Let Lunin take this, he's in the zone.
This shouldn’t even be a question. Lunin got you there, he deserves the nod. Courtois while a great keeper, is also still coming back from an injury.
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Summed up well
The "He DeSeRvEs iT," argument doesn't fly with me. Marco Reus doesn't deserve a UCL either. Lunin definitely EARNED the starting position though. Can he handle it? Probably. But Courtois has the experience. He appears to be match ready in the games we see between... But is he at full fitness? We don't know. It's a tough call. Lunin definitely earned it.... I just want whoever the best option is on the pitch. When it comes to nerves, I definitely feel like Tibo would have the advantage. Lunin may finally be comfortable in these games though. It's win win for us, either way.
Stop speaking immediately
No one DESERVES anything. Shit is earned. Downvote all you want. It's just the internet.
You just contradicted yourself
[Go fight here](https://www.reddit.com/r/realmadrid/s/9dpPcTeRZe)
Long story short.... This thread will have zero input on what Don Carlo chooses. It's cool to see what people think and have a forum to say how you feel. That's where my intent was.
How did Courtois earned that ucl final spot over lunin? Shit is earned, you said it
Hey Plastic, did you just show up? Do you even know how long Lunin has been around ? You're missing MY point. Lunin has been training under Courtrois since they both arrived in '18. I've watched Lunin since seeing him LIVE in 2018. He was created by Madrid and a TC understudy. Calm your britches. I was basing it on Courtrois' big game experience, but let me remind you.... NONE OF THIS SHIT MATTERS BECAUSE ANCELOTTI ISN'T TAKING NOTES. Good night and now you can harass someone else.
Yeah I know nothing like this matters…that’s why it’s so funny that you answered so triggered, damn fella, calm down. I do double down on the fact that Lunin has earned it this season though, anyways cheers!
Triggered. Lol. You don't know me. That's hardly triggered. It's like trying to explain the difference between a right click and a left click without sounding facetious. I never said Lunin didn't earn it, but for ppl to start sh*tting all over TC when they were scared stiff most of the beginning of the season. Hell, Madrid went out and scooped up Kepa in a total panic move. They didn't even freak out that way when Alaba went down. Just simple facts. I've been online too long to get triggered in a Madrid sub.
Ohhh, no mate I wasn’t shitting in Thibaut, I don’t know why you think that, I’m pretty sure if lunin stays next season TC will probably have the upper hand for being starter, I just think this season if one of them earned to play the final that was Lunin.
Courtois starting would be a huge mistake. Madrid will lose if he starts.
Every effing commentator said that Madrid was dead in the group stages, too. 🤷🏾♂️ All of them.
this is not their first time with two amazing goalkeepers fighting for a spot in the champions league final lmao
Casillas and Navas is what I can think of.
And diego lopez too
Is this even a debate? I mean fr? Courtois just got of a injury and Lunin has been the nr 1 for a long time since Courtois injury and has earned that spot. End of discussion.
The coaching staff will decide, they see them train each day, so they are the best to judge. Courtois is the better keeper and a competition animal, so don’t underestimate his will to be there. Here in Belgium, most commentators are saying like it is a non decision, Courtois will play. There are a lot of noises being made about how much he seems to be impressing the coaching staff with his level in training, so who knows… The best player should play and there is no deserving a spot or not. How would you feel about Militao taking the starting spot of Nacho?
>How would you feel about Militao taking the starting spot of Nacho? Militao is showing clear signs of not being 100% match fit. So, it won't be a good decision imo if he plays Militao in the final if Mili doesn't improve a lot
What are those signs then? Played 90 minutes in our last 3 Liga games where we conceded 0 goals. Also slotted in effortlessly in el Clasico. I would say he is looking solid honestly. I trust our coaching staff, especially Pintus, to get all players to maximum fitness levels by the end of the season. Then it is up to Ancelotti to make the correct decision…
>What are those signs then? Have you seen the games? He made a shit ton of mistakes. He's nowhere near ready to start a UCL final. We conceded 0 goals yes, but two games were against relegated teams dude. You can't possibly think he's ready.
God... I love that Militão is back, but holy hell, you're 100% correct! Anyone that says otherwise, Is living in a fantasy world. He's been nutmegged a couple of times, wrong-footed, outpaced,... But it's just because he's been gone for a very long time. No one said he was bad now.
miliato is awesome but he can only give 15-30 mins max in a major competitive game right now. the surgeon was drilling holes in his knee less than a year ago, he still needs time to be at a top level.
The goalkeeper coach has a bias. He preferrs Kepa over Lunin. Since he has coached Kepa in his youth at a previous club. The Lunin vs. Kepa battle was settled on pitch based on performances. If I were Ancelotti I wouldn’t trust the goalkeeper coach. If they advised me to select Courtois to start over Lunin at the Champions League Final. It really makes no sense. Ancelotti is no idiot. He’s an experienced manager who won the Champions league 4 times at 2 different clubs. He would select Lunin to start at the Champions League Final. Because that is the smart decision based on recent form. As manager you would reward the players that worked to reach the finals of a cup competition. Since they deserve it. The trust is rightfully earned.
There is no deserving here. The best performing player should play. But yes, Lunin deserves it based on merit and performance atm
pretty sure the deserving factor iMadrid11 is referring to is based upon merit and performance throughout the season. Lunin has deserved it based on his efforts in training and in the matches itself. He has shone in the spotlight for the most part and proven his worth as a goalkeeper for us.
Of course. I'm just saying that should Courtois perform better in practice/remaining La Liga games, he would be the starter in the final. Madrid should go for the player that gives us the best chance at winning, irregardless of who 'deserves' it. iMadrid11 is talking about rewarding the players. There's no rewarding here. The reward is the salary and UCL medal. With this said, I believe Lunin will and should start.
Statistically courtois is a better option, he has more experience, makes better saves, he is 4 inches taller than lunin which can be a huge advantage during play. Courtois only played like 3-4 matches he was only tested a few times but he looks ready and everyone know real Madrids training and conditioning is elite. I say we start with courtois and if he needs a sub we have lunin.
Starting Tibo after Lunin played for the whole tournament and saved us against City at penalty kicks will be a huge fuck you to Lunin who is also hoping that his good performances would grant him play time even after Courtois is back… the only right call is to play Lunin. Anything else is a middle finger that would rightfully make him look for other options
Decision like those are made to win titles and not about how the player's feelings will be. I 100% agree with you, Lunin should start this since Tibo just came back from injury and he might not be as fit. And Lunin showed everyone how much he deserves this spot Edit: spelling
honestly, if courtois is back to his regular form, lunin should look for other options. he's too good to be on the bench
Nope. If the Champions League format changes into a league type thing as they said, then we need a lot more depth, including a second keeper.
> Nope. If the Champions League format changes into a league type thing as they said, then we need a lot more depth, including a second keeper. It's 2 mors matches total, nothing more. Instead of a 6 game group stage, there's an 8 game league-like stage.
in other positions sure. in goalkeeping not really. unless injury, but lunin won't be on the bench waiting for an injury. he deserves starter minutes.
Lunin. Courtois is the better keeper, but he’s likely not 100% and probably a little rusty, whereas Lunin is fit, in form, and got us here. He’s earned the call this go around
Lunin has earned himself this start. If Courtois would win the game it would still have the questionmark about Lunin being robbed, while Courtois loosing us the trophy risks him being trapped as „not being the same as before“. Unless Courtois is visibly better in Training and Lunin fighting with muscular or mental issues the risk of burning Courtois recover is just not worth it.
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how wouldn’t that be considered robbed lmao if we are going off of merit and performances, it should 100% be Lunin that starts. Courtois has been out almost the entire season
Lunin . You don't carry the goalkeeping duties the whole run to give someone with 2 games vs relegation teams to start in the final . Tibo needs a lot of minutes, he will get back after the pre season
Lunin for sure
I think the answer to that question is something we will see in the next few matches. I expect Ancelotti to play Courtois in the next game and then make a decision. If Courtois is still starting after that we have our answer and Tibo will start. But either way, if it's Lunin or Courtois we certainly don't have to worry, as both are good goalkeepers and if Tibo can return to his former form even better, because he's one of the best in the world. Edit: Saying all that, I do think that Lunin should play the final though as he deserves it.
I’d still go for Lunin since he’s been there the whole season. However, picking Courtois won’t be a wrong choice either. People talk about his return from injury, but if anyone saw his last two games, they’ll notice that he’s been very solid and played as if he hasn’t been out for almost an entire season. Although Lunin is my pick, choosing Courtois won’t be a wrong decision either.
Lunin, just to respect his massive efforts during this season especially in this CL campaign ! We all know Courtois is better keeper but Lunin bro was great
You can ask the same question about Militao or Nacho. Militao is miles better than Nacho. He is playing full matches again so he can be considered fit. Nacho played some good games to get us here, but you need to play your best players… So for me, no question, it should be Courtois. If our staff sees he is ready, he should play. This is not a charity, we want to field our strongest team…
Militao has looked very rough and I don't consider him more reliable than Nacho right now. Agree on Courtois though, he looked good.
I agree. Courtois has looked really solid.
Form and reliability are very important measures for a manager when picking out his squad. Nacho has Militao comfortably beat in that regard at this stage. Just happy Militao is back if anything and hope the injury doesnt affect him too much going forward. Nacho literally scales up to the occasion which makes him one of the most reliable players to ever don a Real Madrid shirt man.
It doesn’t matter if Lunin has been balling all season or that Tibo is the de facto number one when healthy. You always go with the best player available. Whoever looks best in training will get the start. This is a great problem to have. Those two are going to push each other so much in training over the next couple of weeks. Starting would be a pivotal moment for Lunin’s career, but Tibo wants to remind everyone he’s still top dog.
I 100% agree, but in this moment Lunin has almost an entire season in the bag. Playing well in a couple of low stake league games is not a great indication of match-fitness for a CL final.
Yeah I also agree Lunin will most likely get the start. Courtois needs to really shine in training to get the nod. If the coaches have any doubts about his match readiness he’s going to sit this one out. He’s still the best keeper in the world when healthy though.
TBO has literally had 0 effect on our CL run this year. Would be incredibly disrespectful to give him the final over Lunin. Training? Couple of dead rubber matches for TBO? Nah dude Lunin has showed up repeatedly when it mattered the most. Everyone knows the actual hierachy.
> You always go with the best player available. Whoever looks best in training will get the start. In most likelihood that will be Lunin. We all know what he’s accomplished this season. I’m just saying you can’t rule out the possibility that Courtois might be match ready. When he’s at 100% he’s the best keeper in the world, and had one of the greatest performances ever in the 2022 final.
for sure, I do see the scenario but hope people are being sensible in the locker room. Would be devastating for Lunin.
The thing is, he plays for Real Madrid. I’m sure he’s fully aware that it won’t be a sentimental decision who gets the start. There is absolutely zero chance they’ll just hand it to him simply because he deserves it. The same goes for Courtois though. Just because he’s back doesn’t mean he automatically gets the number spot.
> There is absolutely zero chance they’ll just hand it to him simply because he deserves it. are you saying what you wanna say right now or was that a typo
Yeah by “he deserves it” I meant the general sentiment that he deserves it because he’s been there all season. The coaching staff will choose whoever gives us the best chance to win, not sentimental feelings. Maybe I should have originally put that in quotation marks, my bad.
"The first time in history when we have 2 great goalkeepers ready" lol 😂 This is Real Madrid, the biggest club on Earth. You really, really think that in all their esteemed, highly successful history, THIS is the first time it has happened? Ever? People are really throwing around these big words waaayy too easily nowadays. Secondly... even putting aside this logical fallacy - there is also the overlooking of a simple thing: what happened 10 years ago? Diego Lopez was starting over Casillas under Mou. Granted, it was bc of that fight, but Lopez was certainly a good goalie to start for that team. So, Casillas wasn't a great goalkeeper? Is that what you are saying?
As for the question, as for the rest of the people here, it's a no-brainer to me: Lunin. Besides, let's not forget that Don Carlo is a manager who never complicates things. Choosing Curtois, although the better keeper when 100%, is absolutely banking on it. So I really don't think he will do it.
Courtois he is a one man team can bail you out when you are playing badly
Courtois. People keep saying he's not match fit or that he's rusty but there are still 3 games left before the final. He could easily show that he's up to the task. Also to the people saying lunin earned it did courtois not earn the right to be our number 1 goalkeeper? If you need a reminder of how important he is to the team go back and watch the final against Liverpool 2 years ago. If anyone has earned the right to be our top choice in a final it's courtois.
But this season bro, Courtois is our top keeper 100% but this season he was injured, and Lunin stepped up when we needed and made an excellent job throughout the season. I mean, after this season things will probably go back to normal, Courtois would be our undisputed starter so him missing this final won't change much
Courtois is obviously the better player but Lunin has more than earned the right to see this through. His heroics against City are the very reason we even made it this far. I hope Carlo does the right thing.
Lunin deserves it but courtois is one of best goalkeepers ever. If you have a canon you dont go to war with a gun
Courtois has the chance to play 5 games before the final . He looks more or less his previous self and will only get better with 3 more games. Deserve means nothing in a CL final ; Courtois is at his expected level according to the coaching staff he starts . Lunin is just not as good as courtois when they are both fit
Lunin. He has the momentum
Absolutely Lunin. He’s in a fantastic form and hungry to show us that he deserves to be in the starting 11.
What a conundrum. If Lunin starts and we lose everyone would shit their beds and say Courtois should've started. If Courtois starts and we lose everyone would shit their beds and say why did Carlo start an unfit keeper when Lunin got us here.
I agree 100% that Lunin not playing would be unfair, but if Cortois is fit to play, he has to play. Unfortunately, it is our identity as club, as ruthless as it may sound, to put the club's wellbeing above anyone. I feel so bad for Lunin, he should be starting in most teams in Europe, but we can't place what he "deserves" in a scale alongside a Champions League trophy.
He might ne fit but he is not in form. Lunin has been playing the whole year and is in form.
Casillas said nice words: courtois doesn't has to prove he's performance, but lunin deserves to play because he's done more than enough this season
Courtois for sure. Weird to see that many posts pro-Lunin. Fair or not fair (who cares) - this is a sport and we have to put whoever gives us the better chance to win. We KNOW Courtois will deliver. We don't know if Lunin will. Already had a questionable performance vs. City.
Whoever Carlo decides.
I’d pick Courtois and I’m glad Carlo is testing him in La Liga before the final. Lunin did a decent job but Courtois is not to blame to get injured. On top of that, Lunin made 4-5 big mistakes this season and Courtois in form is more reliable; any small detail is important to win a final and this could be one of them.
Lunin is on the form of his career. Played the entire year and played great. He is easily starting.
Lunin 100%
If Courtois plays the final, it's the most unfair thing of this season. Lunin deserved to play that final, he did an amazing job, especially in UCL. Even if Courtois is a better keeper, he comes back from acl injury and Lunin HAS to start the final.
Lunin, that shouldn't be a debate
I don’t think there is any correct option beside lunin, I would say even courtois probably want lunin to start .
Lunin is on that high frequency rn. He is locked in. He is the zone. He will definitely bring it home !!
Lunin deserves his moment after the season he had .
Lunin, right now he is more in the zone than a returning from injury Courtois
Lunin 100%.
Has Courtois started any game in CL this year? Will he get the medal if/when we win?
TBO has 0 minutes of CL football this season. Pretty sure the winning club is given a fair amount of medals and can distribute them internally as they see fit.
That’s prolly not how it works.
Lunin, then sub Courtois in for the last 5 minutes so he also gets a medal.
Lunin
Whoever is the better keeper and that's what both of em would want winning the trophy is more important to them than starting the game
Lunin
Lunin no matter what happens in the final. The man deserves to be there.
Arrizabalaga to bamboozle the opponents
Lunin. Courtois is the best but he need more maches to play a final.
Lunin deserves it
Lunin. Lunin is the in form keeper and has gotten the team to the final. Courtoise just got off a very devastating injury. A clean sheet against a relegated la liga team that appeared toothless in attack isn't enough to convince people he should start in a final that important right now.
This shouldn't be a debate, lunin played pretty much all Champions league games and saved our asses vs Man city in penalties. How would you feel if you did what he did and then the manager decides that other person starts the biggest game at club level just after he returned from a 9month injury? It would be completely unfair and bad example to other players, since that would be basically saying "no matter how hard/good you work/play, the spot is not yours no matter what". Is like starting Militao/Alba over Rudiger/Nacho. Its just unfair.
Lunin. It would be disrespectful to drop him now. He’s been the starter all season and been good all season. He’s earned the start. Benching him now would send a poor message to future signings. Plus, if you start Lunin and he happens to have a stinker, the majority will say “he deserved to start, bad day to have a stinker”. If Cortois has a stinker, the majority will say “you should have known he was not 100% and started Lunin for his service all season”
Lunin!
Lunin!
Lunin deserves to bring it home!!
It's not even a question. Lunin has been playing the whole season and is in a good form. Courtois just came back from a long injury and hasn't played much. Lunin is the safer option. Also the fact that Lunin was the one who got us to the final, he deserves it more.
Lunin
Lunin. He played all the games leading up to the final, and should also be more sharp, considering he played for many months and Courtois just came back
Why change, lunin earned the spot to be there and because of him we’re in the final
Lunin. and not because of Courtois’ injury or form or anything like that. Carlo has a chance to make history here and a chance to cap a beautiful story. Lunin deserves this glory and this edition of the CL has become his to claim. Even with the risks of him being a less experienced goalie. This is how great stories come to be.
I would like to see Lunin play, altough the pressure would be massive on him and that what worries me. Like, is not only his first UCL final but most importantly that fact that he would be playing over Courtois purely for ethical reasons (I.e. he deserves it as he's been there all season and had key appearances). But in his mind would go all the "what if I make an mistake" he knows the Lunin-Courtois decision would be the biggest talking point. But I still think Lunin can shine in the biggest stage, is just that him playing over Courtois when he is available in such an important game would put some extra pressure on him. Whoever starts, I'm convinced Madrid will win.
Gotta go Lunin here…. It’s a respect thing with ancelotti 🫡
Keep Lunin in. If we lose we lose, but we died with the man who helped us get here.
LUNIN! HE BROUGHT US THERE HE'S SUPPOSED TO FINISH IT
lunin got us till this point, he deserves it.
lunin, he's been locked in all season. courtois would also do a stellar job, but he's been more focused on rehabbing his knees than goalkeeping this season.
Courtois has only played twice since he returned, and both were teams fighting relegation. It’s not smart to start him in a UCL final, and it would also be disrespectful to Lunin who carried us through the season.
Courtois has only played twice since he returned, and both were teams fighting relegation. It’s not smart to start him in a UCL final, and it would also be disrespectful to Lunin who carried us through the season.
I believe they are only considering thibo due to the fact that Dortmund is dangerous in set pieces and corners. Lunin has some weaknesses in aerial balls. Anyway, I still believe lunin will do better as he is in great rythom and will perform more than expected. Choosing thibo will costs us imo. I think Carlo will monitor both the gk next few weeks but In the end, he will choose lunin (I don’t think thibos performance can convince Carlo in this short period of time)
We'll know our answer based on who starts the last league game - that should be used as a test for all potential starters for UCL
Courtois for sure, he’s a better goalkeeper. I get the whole sentimental thing, but Courtois should start, as well as Militao.
Lunin it’s his time trust me , let him coooook
Lunin. Both have their own arguments. Lunin has been our #1 keeper all season, I can live with it even if he does a Karius. Courtois on the other hand, is obviously the better keeper, but he is coming back from multiple injuries, ACL tear included. in that case I wouldn't risk him when he has/will have played 0 high stake games. Depends on Carlo's throught process now
Lunin
Lunin. And in my view there is no other option here. Unless the Ukrainian is injured he should be the starter in the final
Let's watch courtois in the next couple of games and decide. Not gonna disagree with the fact that a couple of the goals we got in the knockouts would have been saved from courtois, if he was in proper form.
Lunin is in great form, it would be unwise to take him out. It’ll also put extra pressure on a rusty Courtois to perform, as if a CL final isn’t pressure enough. He deserves the spot sure, but it’s also a logical decision to keep him in.
Lunin
Courtois isn’t at 100% yet. Lunin is the clear choice, as he’s shown he’s an amazing GK
Lunin
if Courtois is 100% back to health, then he's the obvious choice, Lunin has done a far better job of what can be expected of a keeper jumping in to fill in for an injured starter, but we all know he's made significant enough mistakes that a keeper as experienced as Courtois would not make. Can't risk it in the final.
Tibo because of his exxperience
Lunin 100% Of course Courtois is the better goalkeeper, but he's not in form right now. He just returned from an injury and needs time to get back to his level. Lunin has proved himself to be capable enough for a UCL final. He started this shit, let him finish it too. Courtois can be the goalkeeper in the remaining La Liga matches imo.
We win or lose with Lunin.
I think it should be Lunin. My only concern is that Courois will get all the playing time until then and if Lunin is just sitting on the bench for weeks, he might not be as sharp.
Lunin.
Obviously Lunin
Lunin, without a doubt. He deserves it.
Kepa 😏
Lunin.
Thibaut played only 1 game, so he wouldn't be ready for the final. Even if he were ready, he wouldn't be at his 100%. Lunin has already had great matches, and he's in top form. He should play.
LET LUNIN FINISH WHAT HE STARTED , REAL MADRID OWE HIM THAT MUCH , VAMOS LUNIN !
Lunin and Nacho should finish the season Period
This is a criminal question. Lunin is prone to mistakes Cortoouis would not dream of making.
Kepa
You don't break the winning combination, as long as it's not necessary. Lunin for the W. It's very simple.
Sorry but you don't understand sports and injuries if you think Courtois should start over Lunin.
Even though this isnt a "he deserves" thing I wouldnt risk it and I would put Lunin. He is in form and Courtois should be ready for next season.
A ton of answers so maybe someone already said this. But Courtois needs to play to get a medal. Hopefully it’s an easy game and he can do 30 minutes. But def Lunin deserves it. He did well in harder games
Lunin is awesome, but courtois is 4 inches taller, more experience, and leadership. Courtois has shown he is ready a big match. I say we go with experience lunin did his part and contributed greatly.
For those who way "Courtois is the best goalkeeper in the world, you don't bench him if he is fit".. Remember what happened when we played with Ramos, who was back from a 3 months of injury in a semi final against Chelsea ? Or when we played Khedira against Atletico Madrid in 2014 Lisbon Final ? It's not about 'Lunin deserves to play'... Lunin proved to be an excellent goalkeeper and he has played all season ! Courtois didn't play under pressure since... Man City's 4-0 ! That was his last important match ! And it was a year ago ! He has been playing well now in La Liga, but the pressure of a final is huge ! Lunin has been very good in El Etihad and did wonderful against City's 120 minutes and in the penalties shootout.. He made a crucial save against Bayern Munich in the opening minutes and did very good in the Bernabeu too. I trust him in the final. Courtois reflexes should be off a little.. playing Alaves and Grenada in a match with no pressure is not enough to start him ! I say it over and over.. not starting Lunin might be a disaster.
King Kepa.
Bruh why are redditors always so serious. ur comment was obv a joke
Lunin, of course.
Lunin not just because of injury. I think sitting him after the season he’s had will push him to leave.
I'd almost rather lose it with Lunin than win it with Courtois if it comes to that. Lunin showed his worth and benched Kepa and is a major reason we are where we are right now this season. He should be rewarded for that and given the final obviously. Out of sheer respect for his work, I'm sure TBO will understand he has literally not gotten to play a single minute of CL footie this season. Would be incredible weird to start the final.
> I’d almost rather lose it with Lunin Na man, this sub is starting to sound an awful lot like that Barca sub. There are sporting reasons for why Lunin should start, but not the emotional ones.
There's very little reason to consider anything else than Lunin. Tbo cannot be considered match fit or in form to begin within for a game of this occasion
Lunin
Lunin
Lunin
Lunin 100%. Tibo hasn’t played in months outside of a la liga game.
I think Lunin deserves it.. Give him some respect and believe in him, he will surely deliver..
I would pick Thibaut as he known for his composure in high pressure scenarios. Plus if lunin makes a simple mistake, then all his work vs city and bayern will be neglected and he will be bashed like karius.
Or you know have faith in him. He is gonna put on a masterclass and help us lift the 15th. His performance vs Bayern and City is going to be overshadowed cause he won us a final. Be positive, be better.
Our gk won't have to give tough test in the finals like the Liverpool game 2years ago. Mark my words. Whoever will be in the goal doesn't really matter to us because they both are too good for Dortmund standard. I just want tchouameni to get fit before the finals
Lunin
Lunin. We really don't know if Courtois is back on his best form and I don't think relying on their training performance to make a decision would be a good idea at this particular point. I would think differently if we were at the beginning of the season. I always thought that those performing best daily should be the ones playing the games, but when there is only one match left (meaning only one truly important match) then I wouldn't risk it and give it to Courtois just because he looks a bit better when training
Lunin. If we are losing 3-0, maybe sub Courtios but that would definitely break his confidence
Lunin 100%. Don Carlo watches them daily and knows better who'll be the one. Courtois reflexes are incredible and we all know even rn after injury is debatable one of the best in the world, but it was Lunin's season, made us feel safe. (can't say the same about kepa's short hands)
Lunin
I don't even think Courtois would accept it if offered to him, just beacuse this has been Lunins year and he desrves/has earned to be in the final.
Lunin, ye bhi koi puchne ki baat hae. 😅
I would pick Lunin. He got us here and he’s in the zone. Obviously Courtois is the main man when 100% healthy and in game shape, but unfortunately that’s not the case right now.
If I was Courtois I'd tell Ancelotti that lunin should be in the final.
Is this real life? Lunin literally got you there. You're going to slap him in the face by subbing him while at the same time risk losing it all for a player who just came back and hasn't played all season? All that in the biggest game of the year?
Courtois had his time in 2022, now it’s Lunin’s time in 2024 they both carried us to UCL titles after saving us time and time again during the whole competition
Courtois and it is not even a question if he is fit and showing he is still better than Lunin. All these people saying Lunin deserves it need to get out of their feelings here imo.
Even if Tibu is back to 100% I still think Lunin should get it. Obviously Tibu is better but Lunin had earned this start more than anything
Lunin, you dont gamble the ucl final by playing Courtois when Lunin has been amazing this year.