La Liga
Keylor’s Last Match In Madrid?
Keylor Navas is expected to start in goal when Real Madrid take on CSKA Moscow in the Champions League on Wednesday. However, many believe this could be the Costa Rican’s last appearance on the pitch for the Spanish giants.
The talented 31-year-old won back to back UCL title’s with the club, but now finds himself on the bench following the signing of Thibaut Courtois. As predicted, the process has produced its fair share of controversy, although minor.
Many fans find the change without warrant, despite positive performances by Courtois. At the moment, Navas serves as backup to the Belgian, featuring mostly in the Copa del Rey.
With this in mind, Real play their next match in that competition the second week in January 2019. However, at that point it would have already been at least eight days since the opening of the transfer window.
By then, Keylor could already be gone. Effectually handing Kiko Casilla the backup spot.
New Year, New Navas
Several clubs are already interested in the experienced goalkeeper. Most of them in England. In fact, many expect that by New Years Day, Madrid president Florentino Perez will have several offers on the table.
Navas himself remains cordial, despite his obvious frustration. So far, the shot-stopper refuses to speak publicly about the club or manager Santiago Solari’s decision to sit him. A professing Christian, he credits his faith for the ability to remain calm and humble in the face of challenges.
Regardless, few will blame such a decorated player for moving on. Especially one such as Navas. Among his many accomplishments are three UCL’s, one La Liga, three FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Supercups and multiple UCL Team of the season awards for his position.
Most keepers of his level are not second choice, and Navas knows it. Despite repeatedly expressing his desire to succeed with ‘Los Blancos’, Solari’s decision to utilize Courtois as the white’s number one seems resolute. Eventually, the accomplished goalie will go where he is rewarded.
Perhaps sooner rather than later. Perhaps, Wednesday night in the Santiago Bernabeu is goodbye. Time will tell.
Photo credit Real Madrid via Flickr
