Ancelotti on Which Goalkeeper Will Play the Final: ‘If We Don’t Reach the Final, None of Them Will Play’

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti addressed the media ahead of his team’s crucial Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Real Sociedad, offering updates on squad fitness and humorously sidestepping questions about his goalkeeper selection dilemma.

With a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg, Ancelotti expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness. “The team is motivated and in good shape,” he stated. “Those returning from the international break have recovered well, and we have another final within reach. We want to make it happen.”

The Italian tactician faced inevitable questions about who would start in goal should Madrid advance – Ukrainian shot-stopper Andriy Lunin or the recently returned Thibaut Courtois. Ancelotti kept his cards characteristically close to his chest with a witty response: “We’ll see. Lunin can play, Courtois can play, and if they’re both injured, Fran González will play. And if we don’t reach the final, none of the three will play.”

This lighthearted remark masked what has become a genuine selection headache for the veteran manager. Lunin has impressed during Courtois’ long-term absence, while the Belgian’s return from injury presents Ancelotti with a difficult choice between rewarding consistency or reinstating his proven number one.

Ancelotti also reflected on the increasing physical demands of modern football, noting the stark contrast with his playing days. “The wear and tear today is completely different,” he observed. “It’s not just about matches played – preparation, recovery, and injury prevention have all become more complex.”

The 64-year-old highlighted how this season’s schedule has tested his squad’s resilience. “This campaign has been particularly demanding, but we’ve managed well considering the serious injuries we’ve suffered,” Ancelotti said, referencing long-term absences that have stretched his resources.

When pressed about potential squad rotation ahead of the Champions League quarterfinals, Ancelotti remained focused on the immediate challenge. “Right now, our only thought is Real Sociedad. We respect them tremendously and know this will be a difficult match in their stadium.”

The manager’s comments come amid reports that Courtois missed training, potentially ruling him out of the semi-final clash. This development could simplify Ancelotti’s short-term selection decisions while reigniting debate about the long-term hierarchy between the posts.

Ancelotti’s pragmatic approach to squad management was evident as he discussed the balance between competition and cohesion. “Having multiple quality players in every position is a luxury, not a problem,” he said. “It keeps everyone sharp and ready when called upon.”

The Italian also touched on the psychological aspect of cup competitions. “In these knockout matches, mentality matters as much as tactics. Our players understand what’s at stake and what it means to wear this shirt in these moments.”

With Madrid chasing success on multiple fronts, Ancelotti emphasized the importance of squad depth. “Modern football requires complete squads, not just starting elevens. Every player will have their role to play in the coming weeks.”

As for the goalkeeping debate, Ancelotti’s humorous deflection suggests he’s in no rush to make his decision public. “Right now, I’m only thinking about reaching the final. Then we can discuss who plays in it,” he concluded with a smile.

The match at Anoeta Stadium promises high stakes, with Madrid aiming to book their place in what would be a record-extending 41st Copa del Rey final. Ancelotti’s men will need to overcome both their opponents and the weight of history – their last Copa triumph came in 2014.

With the season entering its decisive phase, Ancelotti’s management of both his squad and the goalkeeping situation could prove pivotal in determining whether Madrid’s campaign ends with multiple trophies or disappointment.

As the press conference concluded, one thing remained clear – while Ancelotti may joke about his selection dilemmas, his decisions in the coming weeks will be anything but amusing for Madrid’s rivals. The veteran manager’s experience in navigating these high-pressure situations could be the difference between success and failure.

The football world now waits to see whether Ancelotti’s men can secure their final place and which goalkeeper will ultimately get the nod for what could be a season-defining match at La Cartuja in Seville.