Real Madrid Must Move For A Goalkeeper
By Adam Clifton
@adamdclifton
Getty Images
Iker Casillas has been the face of Real Madrid since the late 90s. Casillas is regarded as one of the best goalkeepers of this generation and is a legend in Spain. However, every career must come to an end, and it appears that the time is near for Casillas. It is common for goalkeepers to continue their career into their late 30s. Unfortunately for Casillas, he has been competing at the highest level since he was a teenager, and has now seen a significant drop in his performance.
Under Jose Mourinho, Casillas fell out of favor at Real Madrid and was replaced by Diego Lopez as the first-team goalkeeper. After Mourinho’s departure, Casillas returned to the starting position, but competition was brought into challenge him. Real Madrid purchased Keylor Navas from Levante as the likely successor to Casillas. Navas was one of the stars of the 2014 World Cup for Costa Rica and his play earned a transfer to Real Madrid.
However, rumors suggest that his form in Madrid has not lived up to the expectations of the club. Therefore, Casillas has kept his position for the time being.
Goalkeepers are not called upon often during games. When they are called into action, there are certain plays they are expected to make. At the 2014 World Cup, Casillas was not able to make the routine plays of a goalkeeper and his squad exited the competition after the Group Stage. Casillas has continued to struggle recently. The first goal of the Madrid Derby is a moment that Casillas would like to forget. It was the first of four goals on the day, but a goal that should have never occurred.
Real Madrid are faced with a difficult situation. Casillas has been the face of the club for nearly 20 years. The player has built up a tremendous amount of goodwill. Casillas likely expects that he will be able to play for the club for as long as he desires. However, his drop in performance is hurting Real Madrid. Recent rumors suggest that Real Madrid are interested in signing Thibaut Courtois from Chelsea. If they can make this happen, it would be an incredible signing to find a suitable replacement for a legend.
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