Andriy Lunin has penned an emotional apology message to Real Madrid fans ahead of their UEFA Champions League final clash against Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, June 1, 2023.
Lunin apologized to Los Blancos supporters for his lack of fitness ahead of the epic fixture, whilst also sending his appreciation to them for their “messages, support, and encouragement”.
Inadvertently, that meant that Andriy Lunin has ruled himself out of the clash, meaning veteran shot-stopper Thibaut Courtois will likely man the post for Real Madrid in the final.
Reports had earlier circulated that the Spanish side would not travel alongside the squad to London on Thursday, May 30, 2024, with his trip to the English capital said to be scheduled for the next day or on the day of the final.
Lunin has been absent from Real Madrid’s training from Monday, May 27, 2024, to Wednesday, May 29, 2024, due to illness, with his wife Anastasiia Tomazova posting a video on Instagram of the goalkeeper training alone in his home.
Andriy Lunin has been solid in goal for Los Blancos this campaign, producing mesmeric performances in the absence of Courtois.
He has been influential in their successes this term, churning out fabulous saves that have helped Real Madrid secure important victories.
Lunin made 31 appearances for Los Merengues this campaign, keeping 12 clean sheets.
Definitely, missing the final would be a hard pill to swallow for Andriy Lunin, given his contributions to Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
Ancelotti had initially expressed in a previous interview that he would stick to Andriy Lunin for the Champions League despite the return of Thibaut Courtois.
However, given recent circumstances, the Italian tactician will be forced to alter his assertions, with Courtois expected to be between the sticks for Real Madrid in the final as aforementioned.
Andriy Lunin’s Emotional Post On Instagram
Lunin’s emotional message to the fans reads: “I’m so sorry that I can’t prepare for the most important game of the season and the most important in my life together with the team…”
Andriy Lunin sent his gratitude to the fans, whilst also charging the club as they aim for their 15 UEFA Champions League title.
He added: “Thank you so much for all your messages, support and encouragement!!! Here’s to the 15th.”
Moreover, Lunin notably produced a heroic display for Real Madrid in their quarter-final clash against Manchester City.
The 25-year-old was outstanding in goal for Los Blancos, thwarting the Cityzens’ attempt for back-to-back Champions League titles by producing staggering saves.
He also saved two penalties in the shootout victory against Pep Guardiola’s side, with Real Madrid progressing into the final with a 4-3 win via penalties.
Andriy Lunin
Andriy Lunin was born in Krasnograd, Kharkiv Oblast and he honed his craft during his youth days at FC Metalist Youth Sportive School.
Subsequently, Lunin played for the youth setup of FC Dnipro, with his first trainer being Kostiantyn Pavliuchenko.
The goalkeeper’s brilliance with the cadet sides of FC Dnipro resulted in him being introduced into the main team of the side in 2016.
Andriy Lunin also played for Ukrainian side Zorya Luhansk from 2017-2018, before moving to Real Madrid on July 1, 2018, for a fee of €8.50 million.
Lunin afterward had to endure loan spells at three Spanish sides as he continued his career development.
The Ukrainian had loan spells at Leganes, Real Valladolid, and Real Oviedo, with many already away of the quality he has.
Following these loan stints, Andriy Lunin returned to Real Madrid in the summer of 2020 and had to battle for his shirt, with the belief that he would one day become a regular at the club.
Cumulatively, he has made 138 club career appearances thus far, keeping 45 clean sheets.
Internationally, Lunin represents the national team of Ukraine, and he has made 11 appearances for the European nation, keeping 5 clean sheets in the process.
Moreover, Andriy Lunin enjoys great support from his family, and he is married to Anastasiia Tamazova.
The goalie walked down the aisle with the stunning lady in a civil ceremony held in 2021.
Lunin and Anastasiia have a son together, whose name is Andrii, and he was born in 2021.
Lunin’s Market Value, Net Worth And Career Trophies
Additionally, Andriy Lunin’s market value according to Transfermkt is €16 million, although his stock is still on the rise.
Based on reports, his net worth is €8 million and he pockets home about €5 million annually at Real Madrid.
Lunin has won several trophies in his career, including; 2 La Liga titles, 1 UEFA Champions League, and 1 FIFA Club World Cup.
