Carlo Ancelotti returns to Real Madrid training and checks on three injured stars | OneFootball

Carlo Ancelotti made an emotional return to Real Madrid’s training ground on Thursday, with the former manager taking the opportunity to reconnect with his old players and personally check on the progress of three injured Brazil internationals.

According to MARCA, Ancelotti returned to Valdebebas ahead of Real Madrid’s meeting with Real Betis and greeted the squad before training began. 

The Italian coach then paid particular attention to Endrick, Rodrygo and Eder Militao, who are continuing their respective recoveries away from the main group.

As per the outlet, the visit had a clear sporting purpose.

Ancelotti is now in charge of the Brazil national team, meaning the fitness of the three Madrid players is directly relevant to his own plans. 

Ancelotti checked on the condition of Endrick and Eder Militao. (Picture courtesy: Real Madrid official website)

With the next international break approaching, he wanted to see their condition for himself rather than just rely on updates from elsewhere.

Ancelotti checks on Endrick, Rodrygo and Militao

Endrick, Rodrygo and Militao trained separately from the rest of the Real Madrid squad as they continue their rehabilitation.

Ancelotti closely observed the three Brazilians during their session, paying particular attention to how their recovery is progressing.

Notably, at the last 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ancelotti was only able to call upon Endrick, while Rodrygo and Militao were both affected by long-term injuries.

Those problems have continued to linger, making their availability an obvious concern for the Brazil coach as another international break approaches.

Rodrygo’s potential return is slated towards January 2027. (Picture courtesy: Real Madrid official website)

Ancelotti’s visit therefore allowed him to combine a return to familiar surroundings with a first-hand assessment of players who could be central to his plans.

Real Madrid face mounting selection problems

From Real Madrid’s perspective, Ancelotti’s return came at a difficult moment for Jose Mourinho.

The Madrid manager remains without Aurelien Tchouameni Raul Asensio, Ferland Mendy and Thiago Pitarch, while Endrick, Rodrygo and Militao are also unavailable as they work their way back to fitness.

Furthermore, for Tuesday’s Champions League match, Mourinho will also be without Camavinga, Arda Guler and Federico Valverde through suspension. 

That leaves the Portuguese coach with a heavily depleted midfield at a time when Real Madrid face one of the most demanding parts of their schedule.