Real Madrid goalkeeper Kepa injured in warm-up vs Braga in Champions League. Who comes in?

Ahead of Game 4 in the Champions League group on Wednesday, the big question on every Real Madrid fan’s lips was whether or not new superstar Jude Bellingham would play. Shortly before kick-off we got the answer to that. But then, as the players who were lined up to start got their heads in gear for the clash with their guests from Braga, Carlo Ancelotti had another issue to deal with.

Kepa Arrizabalaga, the goalkeeper brought in as an emergency cover for long-term injured number one Thibaut Courtois, pulled up in the warm-up with the immediate news that he would not be able to play. Muscular discomfort in his right leg was the cause reported and he would be expected to go for tests on Thursday to assess the extent of the problem.

Real Madrid vs Braga: Follow the live action here!

Who plays in Real Madrid goal with no Courtois or Kepa?

What this latest setback means is that 24-year-old Andriy Lunin puts his gloves on from the start of this game. The Ukrainian has made two appearances this season after making his Madrid first team debut in the 2020/21 Copa del Rey. His Champions League debut arrived in October 2021 against Shakhtar Donetsk.

It’s fair to say, the opening minutes went well for the replacement.

Starting XI for Real Madrid against Braga

What was a certainty was that the middle of the pitch would remain largely the same: Kroos will be back after being rested in LaLiga at the weekend. The player who is set to be left out will likely be Luka Modric, as Camavinga, who signed a new deal with the club until 2029, will continue his good work as the pivot in place of the injured Tchouaméni, while Valverde will be dropped into the final midfield spot, with a licence to roam up the right.

As for the back line, Nacho is the main change, with Alaba rested. Rüdiger, suspended for the weekend’s LaLiga game against Valencia, will play alongside the Spaniard. On the right, Lucas takes up the role with Mendy on the left.