Andriy Lunin emerged as one of Real Madrid’s decisive figures in the 3–2 win over Talavera, not only for his late heroics between the posts but also for his words afterward in the mixed zone. Wearing the captain’s
armband on the night, the Ukrainian goalkeeper addressed the media.
On Wearing the Captain’s Armband
“Thanks to the half of the squad that wasn’t here, to all the captains — being captain of Real Madrid is always an honor. There’s a lot of hard work and time behind it, and I’m grateful to everyone who has helped me all this time.”
On the Difficulty of the Copa del Rey
“It was difficult to advance, it’s always difficult. The Cup is different, the matches are different and I would like to advance without conceding any goals, but we are already in the round of 16 and we have to keep fighting for the Cup.”
On the Transition From Ancelotti to Xabi Alonso
“You have to understand that every coach is different. Ancelotti was older, more experienced, and had won everything in his career. Xabi is young, everyone respects him, there are new things going on, and it’s a normal process of adaptation and change.”
On Doubts Surrounding Xabi Alonso
“I don’t know who could doubt Xabi, we don’t doubt our coach. We’re a group and we’re all in the same boat. I don’t know who’s questioning him, whether it’s the fans or the press, but in the end it doesn’t matter to us because we’re focused on our job.”
On Mentality and Standards
“We prepare for every match the same way. We are all aware here of what club we are at and what is at stake. We must win every match.
“We had to be even more aggressive, focused, and not relax. We advanced, and that’s the most important thing.”
On His Role and Readiness
“I don’t think that way. It’s my job, what I’ve been doing since I was little. I have to help the team and always be ready.”
Final Reflection
“We had to play a serious match and we did so to a certain point. The important thing was to get through the round and keep fighting.”
