Real Madrid handed timely boost as key players return to training ahead of Atletico clash | OneFootball

Real Madrid may have been hit hard by Thibaut Courtois’ injury, but it is not all bad news coming out of Valdebebas.

With a crucial Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid just around the corner, there are finally signs of recovery within the squad. 

According to AS, after weeks of dealing with absences and forced adjustments, Alvaro Arbeloa is starting to get options back, something that could prove vital in the coming days.

The biggest positive from the latest training session was the return of Alvaro Carreras and Raul Asencio, both of whom trained normally with the group. 

For a defence that has been stretched thin in recent matches, that alone offers some much-needed relief.

A step forward for Bellingham

At the same time, Jude Bellingham also took a step forward.

The English midfielder was able to participate in part of the session, marking his first real involvement with the group after a lengthy spell on the sidelines. 

It is a gradual return, but an important one, especially given his influence on the team when fully fit.

There is, however, caution around his situation.

Asencio could return against Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

Bellingham has not been ruled out for the derby squad, but starting him would be a significant risk. 

After more than a month and a half without competitive action, throwing him straight into such an intense fixture could do more harm than good.

It is a situation that feels familiar, as earlier in the season, he found himself in a similar position after recovering from shoulder surgery, eventually making his return in a high-pressure game. 

This time, though, the coaching staff may opt to introduce him in the latter stage if required.

What about Carreras and Asencio?

While Bellingham’s case remains uncertain, there is greater clarity and optimism around Carreras and Asencio.

Carreras had already been close to returning, even making the bench in Manchester, though he did not feature. 

Now fully back in training after missing four matches, he is in contention once again.

Asencio, meanwhile, returns after recovering from a strain in his right leg, having missed the last three games. 

Even so, the list of absentees remains significant, as Arbeloa is still without Courtois, Rodrygo, Ferland Mendy, Dani Ceballos and Eder Militao.