Real Madrid has officially begun pre-season preparations for the 2026/27 championship. The first friendly match for the 'royal club' was against Alcorcón, and this event was significant for several reasons. The main intrigue of the match was the squad policy of the new coach, José Mourinho, who entrusted the captain's armband to the Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin.
Lunin — Leader of the Goalkeeping Line
27-year-old Andriy Lunin wore the Real Madrid captain's armband for the first time. This decision by the Portuguese specialist became a signal of trust towards the Ukrainian, who played 12 official matches for the Madrid squad in the past 2025/26 season. The player's current contract with the club is valid until June 2030, which speaks to the team's long-term plans for his participation.
The match against Alcorcón took place with a clear playing advantage for the Madrid side. However, the resolution of the match was delayed until the end. The only goal at the stadium was scored only in the 81st minute. The author of the precise shot was Yañez, who converted a penalty. The final score of the match was 1:0 in favor of Real Madrid.
Plans for the Near Future and Transfers
José Mourinho's team does not intend to stop at what has been achieved. Already on Tuesday, July 28, the 'whites' will play their next friendly match as part of the pre-season. Their opponent will be Leganés.
Alongside the training process, the club is actively working in the transfer market. According to media reports, the Madrid side has already agreed on the terms of a personal contract with Manchester City midfielder Rodri. The 26-year-old Spaniard is the holder of the 'Ballon d'Or' and the reigning world champion, which makes his potential strengthening of the squad one of the main events of the summer window.
The return of the legendary Portuguese specialist to the Real Madrid bench has already generated huge interest among fans. The first match under his leadership went successfully, and the trust in Lunin confirms that Mourinho is ready to rely on proven players capable of taking responsibility for the team's performance.
