Real Madrid News
Real Madrid injury update: Key duo could return in time for Villarreal clash just after international break
Real Madrid have received a welcome boost on the injury front, with Kylian Mbappe and Ibrahima Konate both expected to recover in time for the club’s return to action against Villarreal.
According to COPE, the French duo is being given recovery periods of between 10 and 15 days, which puts both players in contention for the October 10 fixture, although their availability from the start will depend on how their recoveries progress.
Mbappe injury initially caused concern at Real Madrid
Mbappe picked up the problem while representing France after scoring in the 1-0 victory over Turkiye on Friday.
The forward was forced off shortly after finding the net, prompting immediate concern given his importance to both club and country.
Real Madrid later confirmed the diagnosis following medical tests at Valdebebas, stating,
“Following tests carried out today on our player Kylian Mbappe by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with hyperextension of the posterior capsule of his left knee.”
The club did not put a precise return date on the injury, but indications from within Real Madrid pointed towards an absence of around two weeks.
That timeline would allow Mbappe to work towards the Villarreal fixture rather than facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Konate injury adds to Real Madrid’s defensive concerns
Konate also returned early from international duty after suffering a problem in his right leg. Real Madrid subsequently confirmed the injury but once again did not reveal its severity or provide a recovery estimate.
The initial expectation, though, is that the issue is minor. That is particularly important because Real Madrid are once again dealing with mounting injuries.
With club football scheduled to resume on October 10, the reported 10 to 15-day recovery window gives both Mbappe and Konate a realistic chance of being involved.
Real Madrid will still be cautious
Getting the pair back into the squad would be a significant boost, but there is little reason for Real Madrid to rush either player.
Mbappe’s knee problem needs to be handled carefully, while Konate’s return will also depend on his response to training.
Hence, even if both are declared fit for Villarreal, their minutes could be managed, meaning that the pair might not start the game right away.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
