Lunin says Real Madrid is “the toughest challenge for a goalkeeper”

Real Madrid loanee goalkeeper Andriy Lunin recently spoke with AS (via Goal) about if he thinks playing for Real Madrid is the hardest challenge for a goalkeeper.

“Yes. There always was and there always will be critics. It’s normal and some people think it’s their responsibility. I have the coach, the coaching staff and my teammates to help me. I manage criticism well.”

“I hope I will be able to demonstrate my level so that Zidane sees that I have to return to Madrid, that he has one more option. I’ll try everything for that and we’ll see. I am giving everything to return to Madrid but in the end the coach and the club decide.”

It’s been a bit tough on loan for Lunin the past couple of seasons. He didn’t get much of a chance to start for Leganés or Valladolid. He got more of a chance this season at Oviedo.

He may get his chance with Real next season to back up Thibaut Courtois, especially if the club lets Alphonse Areola go. There is potential for Lunin to start building a career at his parent club.

Real Madrid reportedly had a chance to sign Lewandowski in 2014

According to AS, Real Madrid had a good chance to sign Robert Lewandowski in the summer of 2014. The Polish striker had already signed a pre-contract agreement with Bayern Munich from Dortmund, but Real were reportedly interested in breaking his €20 million release clause.

The article says that Real club president Florentino Pérez decided not to in fear of ruining a good relationship with Bayern.

If this story is true, it’s amazing Real could’ve had a world-class striker for just €20 million. It’s even more remarkable when you see that Bayern got him on a free transfer. Even at age 31, he’s still one of the best strikers in world football.

Lewandowski’s arrival surely would’ve meant Karim Benzema’s departure. It’s an interesting version of alternative history had Lewandowski joined Real Madrid in 2014. Benzema was vital in Real’s 3 European championships since then.

Real Madrid named “most valuable European football club” for second consecutive year

According to an official press release from Real Madrid, the club has been named the most valuable European football club for the second year running by KPMG.

The report values Real Madrid at just under €3.5 billion. This valuation was analyzed for five years between the 2016-2020 seasons. The club has seen an increased annual value by 8% and a 41% growth in revenue.

Real are one of only three Spanish teams in the top 15 of the report. Barcelona rank third and Atlético Madrid rank 13th in European club value.