Luka Jovic is very close to returning to LaLiga, but not to Real Madrid. His possible destination now is much more modest: Real Oviedo. However, behind this unexpected twist, there's a curious story and an unexpected protagonist: Andriy Lunin, his former teammate at Madrid.
From promise to discard
Florentino Pérez made a strong bet on Luka Jovic in 2019. He paid more than €60 million for a striker who had shined in Germany. He was expected to form a lethal duo with Benzema or at least provide competition, but none of that happened.
In three seasons, he scored only three goals; his time at Madrid was colder than his usual expression on the bench. Zidane didn't trust him, neither did Ancelotti. Florentino, tired of waiting, decided to let him go with hardly any resistance; he let him go, without hesitation.
Now, five years later, soccer is giving him a second chance in Spain. Although in a very different context.
Oviedo calls… does Lunin answer?
Real Oviedo, newly promoted to the First Division, has taken a firm step to sign him, and it's no coincidence. The club needs goals, and Jovic, despite his recent track record, has talent and experience. But there were doubts—about the city, about the project, about whether it was worth it.
That's where Andriy Lunin comes in. The Ukrainian goalkeeper played on loan at Oviedo in the 2019/20 season. He was key, he won the fans' affection, and he knows the club well. That's why Jovic reportedly asked him for advice.
The answer, apparently, was positive—very positive. Lunin recommended the atmosphere, the environment, and the club's professionalism. An opinion that may have tipped the balance.
A coach who speaks his language
Another reason that has brought Jovic closer to Oviedo is the presence of Veljko Paunović. The coach, also Serbian, has been involved in the talks. His style, his way of dealing with the player, and the fact that they share culture and language have been key.
For Jovic, this represents something different—finally, someone who can understand not only his game but also his frustrations and expectations. All this makes Oviedo not seem so small. On the contrary, it may be just what he needs.
The return to Bernabéu
If the signing is finalized this week, as many media outlets already take for granted, fate will be whimsical. Jovic will step onto Bernabéu again, but not as a star, not as a superstar. He'll do it as a visitor, defending the colors of a humble team that wants to stay in the First Division.
It'll be a special moment. Florentino let him go, yes, but soccer goes in circles. This return may serve Jovic as personal redemption. Scoring a goal at Bernabéu? It would be the final twist that only this sport can write.
All of it, in part, thanks to a silent piece of advice. That of Andriy Lunin, a goalkeeper who already left his mark in Oviedo… and who may have helped another find his place.