Real Madrid will be looking to win their 15th European crown when they take on Borussia Dortmund in the final of the UEFA Champions League. The storylines are set. Will Toni Kroos win the cup with the big ears for the sixth time in his last club game? Or will Marco Reus finally win the big one in his farewell for BVB?
Well, there is another veteran player who has a bit of a storyline going into the Champions League final. Thibaut Courtois was not even expected to return to action this season after his ACL injury early on in the campaign.
But now, Courtois will find himself between the posts for Real Madrid in the final of the Champions League. That has been confirmed by Carlo Ancelotti.
Andriy Lunin has done a remarkable job in helping Real Madrid reach this stage but he will miss out, as he has the flu. As reported by the club's official website, Ancelotti said in his press conference before the final:
"Lunin has been suffering from flu and hasn't been able to travel or train. He's travelling tomorrow and will be on the bench, so Courtois will start."
Carlo Ancelotti confirms Real Madrid veteran will start Champions League final
Of course, that is terrible luck for Lunin, who played so well all season and had earned the opportunity to play in this game. One has to wonder though if he would have gotten the nod even if he had not suffered from the flu.
Courtois returned to fitness not too long ago and started four of Real Madrid's last five La Liga games. It is quite clear that when fit and available, he is the club's number one.
Understandably so, as Courtois has proven himself in big games. The last time Real Madrid won the Champions League, the Belgian goalkeeper almost won the final on his own against Liverpool. The club's fans will be hoping for more of the same against Borussia Dortmund.