Real Madrid face a race against time to recover key stars for Tuesday’s crucial Champions League fixture against AS Monaco at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Following Sunday’s training session just 24 hours after a tense 2-0 win over Levante the club confirmed that Rodrygo and Antonio Rüdiger remain sidelined. Both players were forced to work individually as they struggle to regain fitness ahead of the Round 7 encounter.
A Depleted Defense for Arbeloa
Manager Álvaro Arbeloa is already grappling with a defensive nightmare. Real Madrid officially confirmed that the following players are definitely out of the Monaco clash:
- Éder Militão: Still recovering from a long-term injury.
- Ferland Mendy: Sidelined with muscular issues.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold: The summer signing remains in the treatment room.
With 12 points currently on the board, Los Blancos sit in a precarious position and likely need a victory to secure a direct spot in the Champions League Top 8.
AS Monaco: Struggling Giants
Monaco arrives in Madrid in a paradoxical state. While they have lost their last four Ligue 1 matches, their European and knockout form remains strong, keeping them within the playoff zone.
However, Adi Hütter’s side is also plagued by injuries. The most notable absentee is World Cup winner Paul Pogba, whose return remains uncertain. Other key players including Takumi Minamino, Michal, Mawissa, and goalkeeper Lukáš Hrádecký are also currently unavailable.
Match Details & Officials
Kick-off: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 – 20:00 GMT.
Referee: Espen Eskås (Norway).
VAR: Pol Van Boekel (Netherlands).
Real Madrid will be looking to silence the critics and the Santiago Bernabéu boos with a convincing European performance, but their success may depend on whether the medical staff can clear Rodrygo or Rüdiger for at least a spot on the bench.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
