Carlo Ancelotti made a heartfelt return to Real Madrid’s training facilities on Thursday, reconnecting with his former players and taking the opportunity to personally evaluate the recovery of three Brazilian internationals: Endrick, Rodrygo, and Eder Militao.
As reported by MARCA, Ancelotti arrived at Valdebebas just ahead of Real Madrid’s upcoming clash with Real Betis. He greeted the squad warmly before training commenced, signaling his continued connection to the club despite his new role as head coach of the Brazil national team.
During his visit, Ancelotti focused particularly on the trio of injured players who have been undergoing rehabilitation away from the main squad. Endrick, Rodrygo, and Militao have been sidelined due to injuries, and Ancelotti’s assessment was crucial as he prepares for the next international break.
With the international fixtures approaching, Ancelotti wanted to gauge their fitness levels personally rather than relying solely on reports from the medical staff. His attention to their recovery is not just a matter of club loyalty; it directly impacts his plans for the Brazil national team, where the fitness of these players is critical.
Endrick, Rodrygo, and Militao have been training separately, focusing on their rehabilitation. Ancelotti observed their sessions closely, noting their progress and how soon they might be able to return to competitive play. This is particularly significant as Rodrygo and Militao were both unable to participate in the last FIFA World Cup due to long-term injuries, leaving Ancelotti with limited options during that crucial tournament.
Currently, Rodrygo is expected to make a return around January 2027, which raises concerns for Ancelotti as he considers his squad depth for the upcoming international matches. The coach's visit allowed him to assess firsthand the condition of players who could play pivotal roles in his future lineups.
From Real Madrid’s perspective, Ancelotti’s return comes at a challenging time, especially for current manager Jose Mourinho. The team is facing a significant selection crisis, missing key players such as Aurelien Tchouameni, Raul Asensio, Ferland Mendy, and Thiago Pitarch, in addition to the injured trio of Endrick, Rodrygo, and Militao.
Moreover, for their upcoming Champions League match, Mourinho will also have to navigate the absence of Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, and Federico Valverde due to suspensions. This situation leaves the Portuguese manager with a severely depleted midfield, coinciding with one of the most demanding stretches of the season for Real Madrid.
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