Real Madrid News
Real Madrid superstar might not play again this season – report
If the two points Real Madrid dropped at the weekend against Real Betis were not damning enough, the club faced a concurrent setback of massive proportions when Kylian Mbappe left the field with discomfort late in the game.
The Frenchman, after all, has been one of the team’s most reliable goal scorers all season, and his absence for a crucial part of the league campaign, including a Clasico, comes as a massive blow.
After his injury, the player underwent an ultrasound scan to determine the extent of his hamstring injury and the results were reportedly positive.
Further tests, including an MRI, however, were expected to ensue further in the day.
A massive blow
Despite the USG report showing early positive signs, it does not appear that the higher diagnostic tests followed suit, as relayed by El Chiringuito.
The Spanish outlet now reports that Mbappe is unlikely to play again for Real Madrid this season, and that his injury will not permit him to play in any of the remaining games.
What the update implies is that Mbappe’s hamstring discomfort will keep him out of action for a month at least, and that he will not even be fit to face Athletic Club on the final match day in late May.
If true, this comes as a massive blow to Real Madrid’s ever-so-slim chances in La Liga, and it significantly weakens them ahead of El Clasico.
Needless to say, part of the decision is down to the upcoming FIFA World Cup and ensuring Mbappe is available for that event.
It is true that Real Madrid recorded better results when Mbappe was injured the last time and that his return coincided with the team’s slump in form.
There is, thus, some reason to be optimistic, but it can never be good news to have the team’s top scorer of the season ruled out of the remainder of the campaign.
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.
