Real Madrid goalkeepers not in contention for the Zamora Trophy due to Ancelotti’s rotation policy | OneFootball

With just 12 matches remaining until the end of the season, Real Madrid are well on course to reclaim the league title come the end of May.

The Spanish giants have a healthy six-point lead over second-placed Girona and are not expected to slow down anytime soon.

One particularly impressive aspect of Real Madrid’s performances in the league this season is the defensive solidity, even in the face of injuries.

With 16 goals conceded in 26 matches, Real Madrid have by far the best defensive record in the league.

Much of it can be attributed to the two goalkeepers – Kepa Arrizabalaga and Andriy Lunin – who have been deputizing for the injured Thibaut Courtois throughout the campaign.

Kepa and Lunin ineligible for Zamora Trophy

Despite their tremendous performances in between the sticks, though, both Kepa and Lunin are ineligible to compete for the Zamora trophy.

The Zamora trophy is a prestigious accolade given to the goalkeeper with the best goals-to-game ratio at the end of a La Liga season. However, in order to qualify for the trophy, a goalkeeper must feature in at least 28 matches.

Lunin won’t be considered for Zamora Trophy this season (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen won the prestigious trophy last season, following his stupendous performances in between the sticks.

Carlo Ancelotti’s rotation policy to blame

Kepa and Lunin will be ineligible for the Zamora trophy this season primarily due to Carlo Ancelotti’s rotation policy this season.

As things stand, Kepa has 14 appearances to his name, whereas Lunin has 12. Even if any of the two play all the remaining matches this season, they will be unable to reach the required figure of 28.

This is because Ancelotti decided to put his faith in Lunin halfway through the campaign, especially after Kepa’s knock in November.

The Ukrainian has made good use of his opportunities as well, leaving Kepa behind in the pecking order.

The Spaniard, in fact, has been going through a tough time lately and is not expected to be considered for the Spanish team for the upcoming Euros.