Álvaro Arbeloa looks to protect his unbeaten La Liga record as defensive stars return to training at Valdebebas.
Real Madrid have been handed a massive double boost ahead of their La Liga clash against Rayo Vallecano. Star defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold and Antonio Rüdiger have both returned to full training at Valdebebas, offering coach Álvaro Arbeloa much-needed depth following a challenging week.
The Return of the Defensive Pillars
The news comes at a crucial time. Alexander-Arnold has been sidelined since late December, while Rüdiger has been recovering from a physical setback sustained during the Supercopa in January. Their return to the squad is expected to be finalized this Saturday, providing a significant morale boost after Madrid’s midweek Champions League defeat to Benfica.
Arbeloa, who remains unbeaten in La Liga since taking the reins, is eager to reintegrate both players to solidify a tactical scheme that has been hampered by constant injury woes this season.
Mixed News from the Treatment Room
While the return of Arnold and Rüdiger is cause for celebration, the medical department remains busy. Ferland Mendy and Éder Militão both missed ball-work sessions this week and have been officially ruled out for Matchday 22. Both players continue their physiotherapy programs, with no confirmed date for their return to the starting XI.
Focus on Domestic Dominance
Following the European setback, the atmosphere at the Bernabéu is one of focus. Real Madrid sits firmly in the title race, and a victory against Rayo Vallecano is seen as essential to maintain pressure at the top of the table. With the “invincibility” of Arbeloa’s league record on the line, the presence of veteran leaders like Rüdiger could be the deciding factor.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
