Real Madrid have done ever so well to stay afloat amid their injury crisis in the first half of the season.
In fact, the Merengues have gone above and beyond, certifying their spot as league leaders with 45 points. Despite drawing Girona on points, they have the better goal difference.
However, the club will be looking to avail the ongoing Christmas break as a time for self-reflection.
One of the major dilemmas in the previous few games was the competition between Andriy Lunin and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Despite Kepa arriving as the first-choice keeper in Courtois’ absence, his injury paved the way for Lunin to make a strong case for himself, which has now given Ancelotti a lot of food for thought.
Ancelotti deciding on his first-choice keeper
Indeed, as per MARCA Carlo Ancelotti is currently deciding who will be Real Madrid’s starting goalkeeper after the holidays.
The information argues that he does not want to continue with the distribution of minutes that happened just before the Christmas break.
Thus, Ancelotti has to choose his starting goalie, deciding who will compete in both the League and the Champions League, and who will receive minutes in the Cup as a consolation prize.
Difficult dilemma
However, determining who will get the axe will not be a simple decision as Ancelotti’s choice affects the future planning of the club and players as well.
Kepa arrived on loan with the intention of staying at Real Madrid; however, if he is not the starting goalkeeper, this option is no longer as appealing to him.
Meanwhile, Lunin’s contract expires in 2025, and if he seems dissatisfied with his role in the team, the Ukrainian would once again have to contemplate an exit, something he has reportedly leaned towards previously.