Real Madrid held their first training session on Thursday as they turned their focus toward Saturday’s LaLiga clash against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu (9:00 p.m. CEST). The biggest news from Valdebebas was the return of Éder Militao, who rejoined the group after sitting out the midweek Champions League win over Kairat Almaty.
The Brazilian defender had been sidelined after taking a heavy shot to the leg from Alexander Sørloth during the Madrid derby. The impact left him in pain and restricted
his movement, forcing him to miss the European fixture. After undergoing specialized treatment, Militao was able to train normally and looks on track to be available for the weekend.
Elsewhere, Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy, and Trent Alexander-Arnold continued working individually as they recover from their respective injuries.
With most of the squad at his disposal, Xabi Alonso oversaw a session that started with warm-up and mobility drills before moving into rondos, crossing and finishing exercises, and tactical work. The practice wrapped up with a competitive 8v8 match.
Real Madrid are aiming to bounce back quickly from last weekend’s 5–2 defeat to Atlético de Madrid, a result that cost them top spot in LaLiga. Barcelona now sit one point clear at the summit, making Saturday’s game against Villarreal a crucial chance for Los Blancos to respond.
