Real Madrid ace needs to step up in the absence of key player amid sharp dip in form | OneFootball

Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin has been a key figure in the squad, stepping in for Thibaut Courtois during critical times, especially in last season’s UEFA Champions League.

However, this season, with Courtois sidelined due to injury, Lunin has struggled to make the same impact, and this decline is backed by some surprising statistics.

The dip in Lunin’s performance was already evident earlier this year during the UEFA Euro, where he was dropped after just one game.

Yet, his ambition to succeed at Real Madrid remains strong, as he signed an extension until 2030. This renewal highlights Lunin’s commitment to Madrid and his determination not to let go of this prestigious opportunity.

Lunin’s dip in form

Despite the new contract, Lunin’s performances so far have raised significant concerns. In the three matches he has played in Courtois’ absence this season, his record is less than impressive, with just one win, two losses, and only a single clean sheet.

Andriy Lunin is a shadow of himself. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Moreover, he has conceded five goals in those games. Although not all the blame can be placed on him, particularly in the high-stakes El Clasico, his positioning during key moments left much to be desired and contributed to a less-than-ideal outcome for Madrid.

One of the most telling indicators of Lunin’s recent struggles is his save percentage. In the 2023-24 season, he managed to stop 96 out of 128 shots, maintaining a respectable save rate of 75%.

However, this season has seen a sharp drop in his effectiveness; out of 11 shots faced, he has saved only six, bringing his save rate down to 54%. This significant decline highlights the challenges he currently faces between the posts.

With Courtois not expected to return until after the next international break, Lunin has a crucial opportunity to step up. The pressure is on him to justify his contract renewal and prove his worth to the team.

To do so, he will need to improve his performances significantly, especially given the recent dip in Real Madrid’s overall form.

The responsibility to protect Madrid’s goal falls on Lunin, and it’s clear that the coming matches will be essential for him to regain the trust of both the fans and the management.