Konate faces two‑week layoff as Real Madrid weigh options
In the early morning at the Real Madrid training ground, centre‑back Ibrahima Konate limped off after a French national team drill, his right knee visibly strained. A scan in Madrid confirmed a minor lateral ligament tear, and doctors estimate a recovery of roughly two weeks, possibly extending to three. Images: Getty
Real Madrid expect Konate to be fit for the league fixture against Villarreal on 10 October, but coach has warned he will not be rushed back without full recovery. Should he miss out, Dean Henderson will sit out through suspension and Raúl Assencio is likely to partner Antonio Rüdiger in defence.
If his rehabilitation exceeds two weeks, both the Villarreal clash and the Champions League second‑leg against Roma on 14 October could be jeopardised, tightening the squad’s defensive options.