Report: 27-year-old Real Madrid star set for backup role under Mourinho; will only play in Cup matches | OneFootball

It is not often easy to be the back-up shot-stopper for a club like Real Madrid, who have a first-choice keeper like Thibaut Courtois in the ranks.

The Belgium international is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and with good reason, meaning minutes for his understudy are very minimal.

Andriy Lunin has been Los Blancos’ back-up shot-stopper for quite a few seasons now and has proven himself to be reliable in the absence of Courtois.

Now, according to MARCA, the Ukrainian international is expected to stay at the Bernabeu for one more season to be Courtois’ back-up.

Courtois remains the undisputed No. 1

Courtois will remain Madrid’s first-choice goalkeeper and remains one of the important figures in the dressing room.

He is expected to start La Liga and Champions League games, while Lunin could get minutes in the Copa del Rey.

Lunin will continue to be Courtois’ replacement. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)

That leaves the 27-year-old facing the familiar challenge of training hard, staying ready and making a mark in the few minutes that he is given.

Despite the difficult situation and the fact that he has the credentials to be a number one elsewhere, Lunin is expected to stay.

Copa del Rey could belong to Lunin

The Copa del Rey could therefore become very important for Lunin.

Mourinho is expected to use the competition as an opportunity to rest Courtois and give Lunin some competitive minutes at the highest level.

How far Madrid progress in the tournament will have a significant impact on the Ukrainian’s total appearances this season.

However, it certainly gives Lunin a clear incentive to make every opportunity count, especially with Courtois not getting any younger.

An important back-up for Mourinho

Lunin will only play in cup matches. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)

Keeping an experienced goalkeeper of Lunin’s level is nevertheless valuable for Madrid.

The season will be long, and Mourinho needs reliable alternatives across his squad if the club are to compete on several fronts.

Lunin already understands the demands of playing for Madrid and can step into the starting line-up when required without needing time to adapt.

Courtois’ age and recent history mean injury issues cannot be ruled out with the Belgian, and Madrid need someone like Lunin to step in.

His role may not be glamorous, but he could still enjoy some very important moments.

It is good news for Jose that Lunin will be staying on as the No. 2 this season, and it remains to be seen how many minutes he gets in the coming campaign.