According to a report by the official Facebook page of Fabrizio Romano on Monday, October 26, 2026, José Mourinho praised Andriy Lunin after the Ukrainian goalkeeper delivered a calm and composed performance for Real Madrid in El Clásico.

Lunin started the match after Thibaut Courtois reportedly felt sick before the highly anticipated fixture.

Despite the late change in goal, the goalkeeper handled the pressure confidently and helped Real Madrid maintain its composure during the contest.

Mourinho revealed that he spoke to Lunin before the match and encouraged him to trust his preparation rather than worry about being a substitute.

“The only thing I told Lunin before the match was: ‘You train to play, not to sit on the bench. Go and play.’ He played a game with great balance and calmness,” Mourinho said.

The Portuguese manager also praised the strength and unity within the Real Madrid squad, insisting that Courtois’ absence did not cause panic among the players.

“We have the best goalkeeper in the world, but today none of us cried before the match because Thibaut wasn’t playing. The group is strong, and the players are very united, even in the most difficult moments,” he added.

Mourinho further explained the message he gave Lunin before kick-off.

“I went to Lunin and I told him: ‘You train to play, you don’t train to be on the bench.’”

Lunin’s performance earned him recognition after he stepped in unexpectedly for one of the biggest matches on the football calendar.

His display also highlighted Real Madrid’s goalkeeping depth and the Ukrainian’s readiness to perform when called upon.