At a glance
- Real Madrid completed a third consecutive training session at Valdebebas ahead of Sunday’s trip to Espanyol
- Thibaut Courtois rejoined part of the group session, a significant step in his recovery process
- Kylian Mbappé, Éder Militão, Arda Güler and Rodrygo all remain sidelined
Real Madrid prepare for Espanyol with a cautious eye on the injury room
Real Madrid continued their build-up to Sunday’s LaLiga Matchday 34 clash against Espanyol at Valdebebas on Thursday, completing their third training session of the week. The visit to the RCDE Stadium, scheduled for 21:00 CEST, arrives at a delicate moment for the club, still navigating a congested injury list heading into the final stretch of the season.
The session followed a structured format: activation work and rondos to open, followed by possession drills combined with finishing exercises, and a small-sided match to close.
Courtois returns to Real Madrid group work ahead of the Espanyol trip
The standout development came from Thibaut Courtois, who completed part of the session alongside the rest of the squad. For a goalkeeper who has been managed carefully through the final phase of his recovery, it represented a meaningful step forward – though the club are not expected to rush his return, particularly with the Clásico against Barcelona on the horizon on May 10.
The priority, as has been the case throughout, is avoiding a relapse rather than chasing availability.
Madrid’s squad picture remains complicated
Beyond Courtois, the broader injury situation continues to limit Arbeloa’s planning. Kylian Mbappé, Éder Militão, Arda Güler and Rodrygo all remain in their respective recovery processes, leaving the squad short across attacking and defensive positions.
Mbappé’s absence carries particular weight given his output this season. Militão’s continued unavailability has already forced a reshuffle at the back that looks set to continue for the foreseeable future.
Madrid still have points to play for in La Liga while trailing Barcelona by 11. Getting bodies back before the season closes is now just as important as the results themselves.
