Real Madrid likely to count on 2022 hero in Champions League final vs Dortmund | OneFootball

With La Liga firmly in their grasp and the remaining league fixtures offering little more than pride as motivation, Real Madrid’s attention is fixed firmly on the forthcoming Champions League final.

The Merengues sealed a stunning comeback against Bayern Munich in the semi-finals and are set to face off against another German side in Borussia Dortmund.

However, coach Carlo Ancelotti will have a few dilemmas to solve in the wake of this clash, as the likely absence of Aurelien Tchouameni and the comeback of Thibaut Courtois will give the Italian some food for thought while evaluating his lineup.

Ancelotti drops subtle hint

It was reported that Ancelotti and Florentino Perez think that having Thibaut Courtois in goal over Andriy Lunin against Dortmund could improve their chances of winning.

Now, words directly from the horse’s mouth indicate that the Belgian’s return is a realistic possibility.

Who will emerge on top? (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)

After a convincing win against Granada last Saturday, with Courtois making a solid contribution, Ancelotti was asked about the goalkeeper’s level, to which he replied, “Thibaut needs to play.” (h/t SPORT).

This comment has been construed by many in Madrid as a near-definitive hint, as it appears Ancelotti has already made up his mind.

Considering Courtois’ heroics in the 2022 Champions League campaign, especially in the final against Liverpool, Real Madrid will be eager to have their wall guarding them once more.

Moreover, with games against Alaves, Villarreal, and Real Betis pending, Courtois has enough time to regain his best version ahead of the grand showdown with Dortmund.

However, should Lunin step onto the field in any of these fixtures, he will be the preferred option.

Furthermore, it has been suggested Ancelotti plans to provide Kepa with playing time, allowing him to bid farewell gracefully.

Time will tell how Real Madrid approach the upcoming games, but it is increasingly likely that Madrid will be banking on Courtois in the final.