Real Madrid head to Villarreal on Saturday night with a much-needed shot of momentum — and, crucially, a stronger squad than expected.
Los Blancos have been hit by injuries in recent weeks, but Thursday’s session brought major encouragement: Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz trained with the group and are now expected to be available for the trip to the Estadio de la Cerámica.
Triple boost before a tricky away test
Rodrygo’s return would add a natural wide threat and a direct goal option after he missed Madrid’s last three matches following an issue picked up in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Brahim, meanwhile, has rejoined the squad after international duty with Morocco at AFCON — a tournament that ended in final heartbreak against Senegal.
The third positive update is in defence. Raúl Asencio trained after coming off at half-time against Monaco, and reports in Spain suggest he should be involved this weekend despite managing a long-running shin issue.
Who’s still missing for Real Madrid?
Even with the late boosts, Arbeloa still has to navigate notable absences. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy and Antonio Rüdiger are all expected to remain unavailable, leaving Madrid short of options at the back.
On top of that, Aurélien Tchouamենի is suspended for the Villarreal clash, forcing a rethink in the holding midfield role.
Midfield headache: how does Arbeloa cover Tchouaméni?
Tchouaméni’s absence is the big tactical problem. Madrid’s most likely solution is to ask Eduardo Camavinga to sit deepest, protecting the centre-backs and allowing Jude Bellingham to play higher.
That could open the door for Arda Güler to start in midfield, while Dani Ceballos is another option if Arbeloa wants more control and experience in possession.
What’s at stake?
This is a heavyweight clash between two sides near the top end of the table: Real Madrid are second and Villarreal are third, and the match kicks off at the Estadio de la Cerámica on Saturday evening.
If Madrid can pair the returning attacking depth (Rodrygo + Brahim) with a steady defensive showing (Asencio potentially involved), they’ll feel they have the tools to get a result — even with the midfield reshuffle.
