Real Madrid News
Real Madrid duo out of Mallorca clash, but could return for Club World Cup
Real Madrid secured a 2-0 victory over Valencia on Thursday night, reducing the gap at the top of the table to their arch-rivals FC Barcelona to five points.
But the win came at its own costs, with both Eder Militao and Karim Benzema picking up fresh knocks that prompted their substitutions.
Benzema appeared to have taken a knock in his groin. He was substituted around the hour mark by Rodrygo, whereas Militao picked up a knock quite early on in the game, but continued to play. The Brazilian was ultimately taken off in the 36th minute.
After the game, it was reported that Benzema’s blow was not expected to be serious. And as per a recent report from Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, it appears both Benzema and Militao are set to undergo tests tomorrow.
First reviews suggest they are both set to be ruled out in the upcoming game against Mallorca in La Liga. But there is optimism they can be fit for the Club World Cup matches next week.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid have been handed boost in the fitness of Toni Kroos, David Alaba and Dani Ceballos.
Both Kroos and Ceballos suffered from discomfort during the game against Valencia, with the former even being subbed off by Ancelotti. Meanwhile, Alaba is still recovering from the muscular problem that has kept him out of action for the last three weeks or so.
The report suggests all three players are expected to return to training tomorrow and will be available against Mallorca.
Real Madrid, though, may not have the luxury of having Lucas Vazquez back at their disposal in the coming matches. The wide player is still nursing his injury and it will be a surprise to see him return to full fitness for the Club World Cup matches next week.
Los Merengue are set to kickstart their Club World Cup campaign on Wednesday in Morocco, though their opponent for the semi-final encounter has not yet been decided.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
