Ancelotti plans to start Courtois in Champions League Final -report

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti appears set to hand Thibaut Courtois the starting nod for the upcoming Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund on June 1st, according to a report from Spanish outlet Relevo. The Athletic’s Mario Cortegana later echoed and confirmed the report. It suggests both Ancelotti and club president Florentino Perez believe Courtois’ experience and talent will be crucial in securing a record-extending 15th Champions League title for Los Blancos.

Courtois made a successful return to the starting lineup last weekend against Cadiz after a lengthy absence. The Belgian goalkeeper missed the entire season due to a torn ACL, followed by a setback with a meniscus injury that delayed his return. Backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin stepped up in his absence and completed some heroic performances during the season.

If Ancelotti confirms this approach, Courtois will likely see additional starts in the remaining La Liga fixtures. These matches would provide valuable playing time for the goalkeeper to regain peak form, conditioning, and confidence before the crucial showdown against Dortmund.