Real Madrid attacking duo back in group training ahead of Villarreal clash | OneFootball

Real Madrid have received a timely double boost ahead of their upcoming La Liga clash against Villarreal, with a report from Melchor Ruiz confirming that both Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz have returned to training.

Rodrygo’s comeback is particularly significant given his recent absence from competitive action. 

The Brazilian forward has been sidelined for a period after suffering physical problems during the Spanish Super Cup. 

Those issues forced him to miss Real Madrid’s last two domestic fixtures against Albacete and Levante, before also being ruled out of the midweek encounter against AS Monaco.

Now back on the training pitch, Rodrygo’s return gives the coaching staff more attacking options as preparations intensify for the Villarreal match. 

While his availability for the weekend will depend on how his physical condition responds in the final sessions, his presence alone is a positive sign. 

The 25-year-old remains an important piece in Madrid’s attacking structure, and his recovery comes at a crucial moment in the season.

A ‘new’ Brahim

Brahim’s return carries a very different emotional context. 

Brahim Diaz has returned to training. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

This is because the attacking midfielder has just completed international duty with Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations. 

Notably, this tournament ended in heartbreak, as Morocco lost the final to Senegal, with Brahim missing a decisive penalty.

Despite returning clearly affected by the outcome of that final, those close to the player insist that he also comes back mentally strengthened. 

In many ways, it is a renewed version of Brahim who re-joins the squad, motivated to channel that experience into his club performances.

Sportingly, Brahim is once again fighting for something familiar – a place in Real Madrid’s starting lineup. 

Competition is fierce, particularly on the right side of attack, where Franco Mastantuono is also pushing for opportunities. 

Rodrygo’s return further intensifies that battle, even if the Brazilian is only just working his way back to full fitness.