Real Madrid's major issue following their last Champions League triumph

Real Madrid had yet another successful campaign during the 2023/24 season, yet dressing room politics are causing issues following Carlo Ancelotti's decision to start Thibaut Courtois over Andriy Lunin in the Champions League final, per Relevo. Will this internal war remain an issue throughout the season?

Sergio Fernandez cited anonymous sources in his report on the tense situation, with the Ukranian keeper Lunin going out of his way not to congratulate Courtois following Madrid’s triumph.

Fernandez wrote that Lunin, “did everything possible not to cross paths with his teammate… He did not congratulate him.”

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The report also cited signs of discontent from pre-match, when Courtois was seen hugging various other Madrid players and coaches, including backup keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and goalkeeping coach Luis Llopis. Lunin was seen alone in the stands during this time.

There are photos of the two keepers following the match, but it doesn’t take a body language expert to see Lunin isn’t best pleased with the situation.

Forbes reported that Lunin held Courtois responsible for him not playing in the final. Lunin played like a man possessed during his deputy duties, helping Madrid cruise to a La Liga title, and was the key man in getting Los Blancos to the final, performing well throughout the Champions League tournament.

Reports from Spain suggested Lunin had recently agreed to a new contract with Madrid, with his new deal set to keep him at Real until 2029. Now, following his perceived slight, he is said to have changed his mind…

Relevo reported Lunin may be in play for Atletico Madrid, who could be set to lose long-term shot-stopper Jan Oblak this summer. If the reports around Lunin’s discontent are true, there would be few more telling ways than to move to Madrid’s cross-town rivals.

Other reports suggested Lunin could be a target for Manchester United, who are unconvinced by Andre Onana’s shaky play last season. Football 365 suggested United are readying a £21 million (€25 million/$27 million) bid for the Ukrainian.

Could Lunin truly be so angry with Courtois and Ancelotti he is ready to jump ship following his Champions League final slight? Or is this just a competitive player who wanted to play on the biggest stage or all and reporters are blowing it out of proportion? Let us know what you think!

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