Real Madrid returned to training at Valdebebas on Monday in rainy conditions, and the biggest takeaway was Antonio Rudiger’s partial reintegration into the squad. The German centre-back has been training with his teammates during parts of training, a clear sign that his return is getting closer, even if he won’t be able to make it in time for the trip to Lisbon.
Rudiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both unavailable for the game against Benfica, but both are close to full fitness. The club are targeting a return as early as next weekend against Rayo Vallecano, with Valencia two weeks later seen as a more conservative back-up option.
advertise
Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe and Alvaro Carreras continue with moderate-intensity individual training programmes. According to the club, both players are expected to be available for Champions League matches in Lisbon, despite not training fully with the team. Mbappe trains alone on the pitch, while Carreras conducts tailor-made on-field training.
Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy are still out as they continue their respective recovery processes. Militao is training indoors in the gym, while Mendy continues to work on individual training away from full team activities.
Therefore, Ancelotti’s squad for the match against Benfica will remain largely unchanged. The only addition will be Aurélien Tchouaméni, who returns from suspension in Real Madrid’s win over Villarreal at the Estadio Ceramica.
