Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin will start in the upcoming El Clásico against Barcelona, following a personal conversation between the two.

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With Thibaut Courtois sidelined due to an injury suffered during Real Madrid’s Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund, Ancelotti called Lunin into his office to deliver the news directly: “You will be starting in El Clásico,” the manager told him, according to DefensaCentral.

While Lunin stepping in for Courtois was widely expected, Ancelotti’s personal touch adds weight to the decision. With Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by three points, the upcoming El Clásico takes on even greater significance for Los Blancos, making the performance of Lunin and the entire squad crucial.