Real Madrid News
Real Madrid superstar still not back in training but return edging closer
The trip to the USA for the FIFA Club World Cup has not gone according to plan so far for Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe.
The 26-year-old forward has been sidelined for a week now due to illness with an acute case of gastroenteritis even leading to him being hospitalised briefly.
As such, Mbappe has not featured for Real Madrid in either of their Group H games against Al-Hilal and Pachuca thus far.
Mbappe still not back in traning
Now, according to MARCA, Mbappe remains unable to train under Xabi Alonso’s orders. As Real Madrid resumed work following their victory over Pachuca, the French forward was once again absent. However, his return is approaching.
Mbappe has now joined the team at the training facility, although he continues to work individually in the gym as he recovers from a bout of gastroenteritis.
Ahead of the Pachuca game, manager Alonso suggested that the French international could be ready in time for the final group game against RB Salzburg this week. And as things stand, things appear to be progressing towards that.
Mbappe entered the Club World Cup in top form after finishing the regular season securing the Pichichi and Golden Boot titles with 43 goals under his belt.
The France captain entered the tournament eyeing the milestone of 50, a target that seemed within reach but the illness spoiled those plans.
Mbappe is now working towards a return with the hopes of resuming the scoring push against Salzburg this week.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
