Real Madrid could welcome injured duo back against Rayo Vallecano or Valencia – report | OneFootball

Journalist Javier Herraez has provided a clear update on Real Madrid’s injury situation ahead of this week’s European fixture. 

Speaking via Carrusel Deportivo, the reporter confirmed that both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Antonio Rudiger will miss Tuesday’s match against Benfica.

According to the update, the Champions League encounter has arrived too early for the defensive duo, despite encouraging progress in their recoveries. 

However, there is growing optimism that both players could return shortly, with potential comebacks pencilled in for Sunday’s league clash against Rayo Vallecano or the February 8 meeting with Valencia.

A much-needed return

Real Madrid returned to training following their impressive 2-0 away victory over Villarreal. 

The squad completed their final training session of the week at Valdebebas as preparations continued for the Benfica tie.

As is often the case after an intense away fixture, the players who started at La Ceramica focused on recovery work inside the Valdebebas complex. 

Antonio Rudiger is close to returning. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, the rest of the squad took part in a more demanding session, with Arbeloa continuing his careful approach to squad management.

There were positive signs on the injury front, as Alexander-Arnold partially rejoined group training and responded well to the workload, suggesting his return is not far away. 

While he will not be rushed back for Benfica, the expectation is that the England international will be available again for the match against Rayo Vallecano.

Furthermore, Rudiger’s recovery is also progressing steadily. 

The German defender has been sidelined since the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid, but he was back on the grass ahead of today’s session as he completed the final phase of his rehabilitation. 

Current assessments inside the club point towards a return within the next week.