Real Madrid News
Boost for Real Madrid as key defender spotted in training ahead of RB Leipzig clash
Real Madrid will lock horns with German outfit RB Leipzig on Wednesday in their second Group F encounter in the UEFA Champions League.
Los Blancos started their European campaign with a 3-0 win over Celtic last week, but that victory came at an expense as both Karim Benzema and Eder Militao picked up injuries in the game.
The duo missed the weekend La Liga encounter against RCD Mallorca and were expected to be unavailable for the clash against Leipzig at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday.
However, in a boost for Carlo Ancelotti & co., defender Militao has returned to training with the rest of the team a day before the RB Leipzig match.
Indeed, the Brazilian centre-half was spotted being put through his paces with the rest of the team during Tuesday’s training session, as reported by journalist Jorge C Picon.
Along with Militao, fellow defender Alvaro Odriozola, who was also a doubt for the Leipzig clash, was spotted training with the entire squad. However, Benzema and Lucas Vazquez, who picked up a knock against Mallorca over the weekend, were absent as expected.
Also spotted with the group were Real Madrid Castilla players Luis Lopez, Marvel and Carlos Dotor Gonzalez.
Militao’s potential return comes as a major boost for Real Madrid, considering that Antonio Rudiger did not look all too assured in the game against Mallorca.
Having the Brazilian back against a dangerous RB Leipzig attacking unit comprising Christopher Nkunku and Timo Werner will come as a major confidence booster for the reigning champions of Europe.
Real Madrid have kept just two clean sheets so far in all competitions (vs Eintracht Frankfurt and Celtic) this season, with manager Ancelotti reportedly unhappy with the lack of solidity at the back.
Leipzig have not been in the best of form at the start of the season and have already changed a manager, replacing Domenico Tedesco with Marco Rose. However, they have an attacking unit that can be deadly if it gets going.
With Militao returning to training, it will be interesting to see if Ancelotti decides to name him in the squad for the clash against Leipzig or holds him back for the derby against Atletico Madrid at the weekend.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
