Real Madrid News
Real Madrid defender expected to get some minutes vs Mallorca to prepare for Bayern clash
Real Madrid defender Eder Militao is entering the final stage of his recovery. The experienced defender resumed training with the group right before the international break and he will be available for the match against Mallorca.
Having been out of action since December, the Brazilian international’s return will come as a major boost for Real Madrid heading into the final phase of the season.
No start vs Mallorca
Despite his imminent return, AS reports that Militao is unlikely to be included in the starting lineup for the game against Mallorca next week.
Despite the very positive signs with his recovery, he is likely to be used as a substitute off the bench.
This week, he has completed three full training sessions with the group, from Wednesday to Friday, boosting optimism.
However, this approach reflects one of manager Alvaro Arbeloa’s guiding principles: “I like players, after injuries, to reintegrate progressively.” It is a rule he applies without exception.
The same approach was taken with Kylian Mbappe, who started on the bench in the derby despite reports from Valdebebas that he had been training very well in the days leading up to the match. Militao is now following that same gradual path.
As per the report, on Wednesday, Militao completed a full session with the group, signalling his strong recovery. Thursday brought a repeat performance, and Friday confirmed the trend with another full training session alongside his teammates.
He trained without fear or discomfort, taking part in shooting, acceleration, physical challenges, sprints, and changes of direction. He has effectively been given the green light for his comeback.
The team will return to training on Tuesday after three days of rest, and Militao is expected to continue working with the group, gradually increasing intensity.
With Real Madrid set to play Mallorca in a week, given Arbeloa’s cautious approach, it appears unlikely that he will start. But it is not ruled out that he gets some minutes particularly with the intention of including him in the squad for the subsequent match against Bayern Munich.
Real Madrid News
Arsenal in contact with Real Madrid forward’s camp over potential transfer – report
Doubts about Rodrygo Goes’ long-term future at Real Madrid having been growing for some time.
The Brazilian’s situation had become uncomfortable over the past couple of seasons as he experienced a sudden decline in form. And, just when it seemed like he was about to turn things around, an ACL injury ruled him out in March earlier this year.
With Rodrygo now facing an extended spell on the sidelines, his recovery will be crucial. He is expected to return in December or January, and the club will monitor how he responds physically before determining what role he will play under Jose Mourinho.
Arsenal keeping tabs on Rodrygo
Now, according to TEAMtalk (h/t Bernabeu Digital), Arsenal are in contact with Rodrygo’s representatives over a potential future move.
The report states that the Gunners had already attempted to sign the Brazilian before his injury, and their interest has now resurfaced ahead of a possible move in the summer of 2027.
The Premier League champions had also explored the possibility of signing Vinicius Jr. from Real Madrid this past summer, before he signed a new long-term contract at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Now, their attention seems to have switched Vinicius’ fellow Brazilian forward who is closing in on his return from the ACL rupture.
Real Madrid want to keep Rodrygo until the summer
As already reported, Rodrygo will not leave Real Madrid in January. The intention is for the winger to regain full fitness and become available to Mourinho for the second half of the season.
Real Madrid are not considering selling the former Santos wonderkid during the January transfer window.
Instead, the club intend to reassess his situation next summer, once he has had the opportunity to recover and demonstrate his form on the pitch.
The plan is to have the Brazilian fit and available for the second half of the campaign before making a final decision at the end of the season.
Rodrygo’s performances after returning from injury, together with Mourinho’s assessment of his role in the squad, will help determine what happens next.
Depending on those factors, Real Madrid could consider allowing him to leave or decide that he still has an important future at the Santiago Bernabeu.
For now, Arsenal’s interest remains a possibility to watch, but Real Madrid are focused on Rodrygo’s recovery rather than negotiating a January departure.
