Real Madrid News
Rival watch: Bayern Munich dealt major blow before Real Madrid clash
Real Madrid have received a timely boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich, with Harry Kane emerging as a fitness concern for the Germans.
The two European giants are set to meet at the Santiago Bernabeu in what promises to be a high-stakes first leg.
Bayern may be seen as slight favourites, but recent developments have introduced uncertainty into their preparations.
Kane has been Bayern’s standout performer this season, delivering exceptional numbers with 48 goals and 5 assists in 40 matches.
His presence alone changes the dynamic of Bayern’s attack, making him the biggest threat Real Madrid must prepare for.
What happened to Kane?
However, concerns have surfaced after Kane was unexpectedly left out of England’s squad for their friendly against Japan.
The decision came late, raising immediate questions about his fitness ahead of the crucial European tie.
Addressing the situation, the England national team confirmed that the striker’s absence was precautionary following a minor issue picked up in training.
“Harry Kane is rested tonight as a precaution having picked up a minor issue in training, but remains with the squad receiving further assessment.”
Harry Kane is rested tonight as a precaution having picked up a minor issue in training, but remains with the squad receiving further assessment.
— England (@England) March 31, 2026
Jordan Henderson returned to Brentford ahead of this evening's fixture.
Kane was ideally set to play against Japan, but the national team confirmed that it is a minor issue.
England coach Thomas Tuchel later addressed the media, where he confirmed,
“It’s a minor injury from basically out of nowhere. He had to step out of training yesterday after 15 minutes.
“No chance to be involved, not even today. He is being further assessed now,” he explained.
While the injury is not believed to be serious, the timing is far from ideal for Bayern.
Even a slight dip in Kane’s condition could have a major impact, given how central he is to their attacking system.
From Real Madrid’s perspective, this development could shift the balance slightly.
Facing a fully fit Kane is one of the toughest challenges in European football, but any uncertainty around his availability or sharpness offers a potential advantage.
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.
