Madrid back in masks as Trent to return for Valencia | OneFootball

Real Madrid launched a winter reset under Arbeloa on Wednesday, with Antonio Pintus and his masks setting the tone. According to AS, the session ran from 12:00 to 15:00 and the devices were used to assess players’ limits rather than simulate altitude.

After six matches, the new regime moved from messages to method. Arbeloa’s focus now is on the small details he believes can unlock bigger gains.

Pintus pushed the group to the brink to log oxygen capacity and effort profiles, data that will underpin a more physical approach. These maximal tests last around 15-20 minutes, with the bulk of the session devoted to conditioning.

The squad list is also set for a lift. Carvajal is in full rhythm and could start at Mestalla if needed, while Trent will return to the squad and the idea is to restore Valverde to midfield. Rüdiger and Mendy have a strong chance to be involved, though Militao and Bellingham remain some way off.

With no midweek fixtures for two weeks after the cup setback, Madrid can train cleanly. They enjoyed two days’ rest after beating Rayo, then will stack four uninterrupted sessions before Valencia at 21:00, with another clear run before Real Sociedad visit the Bernabéu on Saturday. Arbeloa has stressed that winning depends on doing many small things well and on hours on the grass, and now he has them.

Source: AS