Journalist Javier Herraez has shared an important update regarding Real Madrid’s injury status as the team prepares for their upcoming European match.
During an appearance on Carrusel Deportivo, Herraez confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold and Antonio Rudiger will not participate in Tuesday’s match against Benfica.
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The reporter noted that the Champions League clash has come a bit too soon for the two defenders, even though they are making positive strides in their recovery.
Nonetheless, there is increasing optimism surrounding their potential return, with both players possibly making comebacks for Sunday’s league match against Rayo Vallecano or the February 8 encounter with Valencia.
A Timely Return
Real Madrid resumed training after their impressive 2-0 victory over Villarreal.
The squad conducted their final training session of the week at Valdebebas as they geared up for the Benfica match.
As is common post an intense away game, the players who featured against Villarreal engaged in recovery routines at the Valdebebas facility.
Antonio Rudiger is nearing a return. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
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Meanwhile, the rest of the team participated in a more rigorous training session, with Arbeloa adopting a careful management approach.
Positive updates on the injury front indicate that Alexander-Arnold has partially rejoined group training and has responded well, suggesting a return is imminent.
While he won’t be rushed back for the Benfica game, there is anticipation that the England international will be fit for the match against Rayo Vallecano.
Additionally, Rudiger’s recovery is progressing well. The German defender has been out since the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid, but he was back on the pitch ahead of today’s training session as he moves towards the final stages of his rehabilitation.
Current evaluations within the club suggest a return could happen within the next week.