Derby days at the Santiago Bernabéu are always special, but the anticipation for this Sunday’s clash against Atlético Madrid just went up a notch. Real Madrid are finalizing their preparations for one of the most crucial fixtures of our domestic campaign, and Manager Álvaro Arbeloa is set to receive a massive, timely boost to his squad.
While the treatment room still has a few too many occupants for our liking, the optimism at Valdebebas is palpable. Here is the latest on the returning stars ready to make an impact against our city rivals.
The Return of the King: Jude Bellingham
The best news of the week? Jude Bellingham is officially back in full training.
After dealing with an injury that kept him off the pitch—including missing the final matchday squad for the recent Champions League battle against Manchester City—our English talisman is finally showing clear signs of physical improvement.
Having recently been called up for national team duty, Bellingham has now completed his first full training session since the setback. According to MARCA, the coaching staff is seriously considering giving him valuable minutes on Sunday. Having a player of his caliber back in the squad, even as an option off the bench, is a game-changer for Arbeloa.
Reinforcements Arrive
Bellingham isn’t the only one stepping back onto the pitch. Arbeloa is looking at a quadruple injury boost just in time for the Derby:
- David Alaba: The veteran defender is expected to be fully available after traveling with the squad to Manchester without featuring. His leadership and composure at the back will be vital.
- Álvaro Carreras: Like Alaba, Carreras traveled for the City game but didn’t see minutes. He is now fully integrated and ready to contribute.
- Raúl Asencio: After missing our recent clashes against Elche and Man City, Asencio is back in line to rejoin the matchday squad, adding much-needed depth to Arbeloa’s options.
Pushing Through the Absences
Of course, it wouldn’t be a true test of this squad’s famous resilience without a few hurdles. We will still be without several heavy hitters on Sunday. Thibaut Courtois, Rodrygo, Éder Militão, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy all remain sidelined with injuries.
Despite these notable absentees, the return of Bellingham, Alaba, Carreras, and Asencio provides a massive sigh of relief. The squad is rallying, the Bernabéu will be roaring, and the stage is set.