Real Madrid took a commanding 4-1 aggregate lead in the first half against Manchester City on Tuesday night, but were forced into a surprise change at half time. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was replaced by back-up Andriy Lunin.
Courtois did not suffer any notable injury during the first 45 minutes at the Etihad Stadium but he may have reported a minor fitness issue at half time. With a comfortable three-goal lead in the tie, and a one-man advantage on the night, Madrid appear to have acted with an abundance of caution to protect their starting keeper.
Lunin came on to make his first Real Madrid appearance since mid-January and he is tipped to leave the club at the end of the season. His outings have not been successive ones so far in 2025/26, conceding eight goals in three games to date.
More on this breaking news story as it develops…
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