Just in: Real Madrid forward is cleared to face Villarreal | OneFootball

Just in: Real Madrid forward is cleared to face Villarreal | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: Madrid Universal

Madrid Universal

·23 January 2026

Just in: Real Madrid forward is cleared to face Villarreal

Article image:Just in: Real Madrid forward is cleared to face Villarreal

According to a recent report from AS, Real Madrid will be able to count on Rodrygo for their upcoming La Liga match against Villarreal. 

The Brazilian attacker has returned to full training and is expected to be included in the squad for the trip to La Ceramica, provided there are no last-minute setbacks.


OneFootball Videos


Real Madrid completed their final session ahead of the La Liga match, with Rodrygo taking part alongside the rest of his teammates. 

His availability represents a timely boost for the squad, as attacking options have been limited in recent weeks. 

While the forward is not expected to start, his presence gives the new coaching staff an additional alternative from the bench.

What happened to Rodrygo?

The return of Rodrygo is one of the main positives ahead of the Villarreal game, as the Brazilian has now fully recovered from the hamstring injury he suffered during the Spanish Super Cup. 

After completing several sessions without discomfort, he is set to travel with the team to Castellon.

Article image:Just in: Real Madrid forward is cleared to face Villarreal

Rodrygo will be available against Villarreal. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

A key question now is how Rodrygo will be reintegrated into the starting XI. 

His usual position on the right wing is currently occupied by Franco Mastantuono, who has impressed in recent outings, including a strong performance against AS Monaco. 

Given Mastantuono’s form, Rodrygo is more likely to be eased back through substitute appearances rather than rushed into the starting line-up.

So far, Rodrygo has not made his debut under Alvaro Arbeloa. His injury ruled him out of the coach’s first matches in charge, including the Copa del Rey tie against Albacete. 

This weekend could therefore mark his first involvement under the new manager.

The training session also featured several youth academy players, as goalkeepers Sergio Mestre and Alvaro Gonzalez were involved, along with defender Diego Aguado and midfielders Manuel Angel and Cestero.

View publisher imprint