Mourinho readies Real Madrid for Villarreal match amid injuries
Real Madrid travel to the Estadio de la Cerámica on Saturday to meet Villarreal, with José Mourinho's defence still riddled with absences but showing signs of improvement after a week of recoveries. Dean Huijsen sits out serving a suspension, while Raúl Asencio has undergone surgery on a tibial fracture, and Rodrygo and Ferland Mendy remain sidelined.
Defence still hit by injuries
Raúl Asencio's season has been derailed by a stress fracture in his right tibia that first appeared in January. A relapse this week forced a successful operation by Dr Manuel Leyes, with the doctor confirming a recovery period of roughly four months.
Dean Huijsen continues to serve his suspension, while Rodrygo and Ferland Mendy remain sidelined with undisclosed injuries. Ibrahima Konaté, having recovered from a knee sprain, is now pushing for a place in the starting line‑up, and Éder Militão, cleared after a femoral biceps strain, may finally make the squad this season.
Concerned by the shortage of centre‑backs, Mourinho has earmarked Aurélien Tchouaméni as an emergency option should Konaté not be match‑fit in time. The Portuguese midfielder has trained in defensive drills to adapt to the role.
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Renewal talks dominate off‑field
Arda Güler is the most advanced renewal case, with terms reportedly sealed and only the official announcement pending. The extension would add several years to a contract that currently runs until 2029.
Jude Bellingham is also on the table for a new deal that could run to 2031, with a proposed salary of about 48 million euros a year, matching the earnings of Mbappé and Vinícius. His existing contract is set to expire in 2029.
Thibaut Courtois, the 34‑year‑old Belgian goalkeeper, is in talks for an extension to 2028, according to reports. He recently reaffirmed his status with a series of saves against Inter in the Champions League.
Mourinho's balancing act between immediate defensive concerns and long‑term contract stability highlights the challenges ahead as Real Madrid prepare for the Villarreal test. The upcoming match will be a crucial gauge of how the squad copes with the current injury list.