Real Madrid believe injured key trio will be ready to play vs Villarreal | OneFootball

Real Madrid are hoping to have Kylian Mbappe, Ibrahima Konate and Federico Valverde available for the La Liga meeting with Villarreal, with the fitness of all three players being closely monitored, according to Melchor Ruiz.

The trio have each faced different injury concerns during the past few weeks, leaving Madrid waiting for clarity before Saturday’s fixture. 

Their availability could be particularly important given the problems already affecting the squad.

Mbappe expected back at Valdebebas

Mbappe was released early from France duty after suffering pain in his left knee during the national team’s first match against Turkiye.

Tests ruled out a serious injury, allowing the forward to take several days of active rest under the supervision of Real Madrid’s medical staff. 

After returning to Madrid, Mbappe is expected at Valdebebas to continue his recovery and conditioning work.

Konate was injured while on national team duty. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Despite the scare, his knee problem is not currently expected to rule him out against Villarreal.

Real Madrid will nevertheless assess his condition before deciding how much work he can handle ahead of the game.

Konate provides relief amid defensive problems

Konate’s situation is also being watched closely, although the initial fears surrounding his knee have eased.

The centre-back suffered a collateral ligament problem in his right knee before appearing for France. 

Further assessment ruled out a serious injury, providing significant relief for Madrid at a time when defensive options are already stretched.

Eder Militao remains sidelined, while Raul Asencio is also unavailable, making Konate’s recovery particularly important to Jose Mourinho’s plans.

Valverde facing the biggest recovery race

Valverde’s situation is more serious than the three. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Valverde’s situation could be the most difficult of the three. 

The midfielder suffered an ankle injury during the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid after a heavy challenge from Kang-in Lee.

He was initially diagnosed with a severe contusion, but subsequent examinations revealed a grade 3 sprain in his left ankle. Real Madrid initially expected him to need around two to three weeks to recover.

That timeline puts his availability for Villarreal under pressure, although the club remains hopeful that he can return in time.

With the three important players dealing with separate fitness issues, Real Madrid will continue assessing their progress before the Villarreal clash. 

None of the trio has yet been confirmed as fit, but the club’s hope is to have all three available for selection.