Real Madrid's medical overhaul aims to end injury nightmare

Real Madrid have launched a sweeping Medical department restructuring to plug the injury gap that plagued almost every first‑team member last season, a move the hierarchy says is as vital as strengthening the squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign overall.

The Athletic reports the overhaul is already under way, marking another major change behind the scenes before the start of the 2026/27 campaign. The club views improvements away from the pitch as essential after an injury‑hit season that affected almost every first‑team member.

Niko Mihic will oversee the restructuring, with Alexandre Creuze, currently head of Monaco’s medical team, expected to join the club in the coming weeks. Mihic’s expanded role reflects the board’s confidence in his ability to modernise injury prevention and rehabilitation processes.

The changes will also bring an end to the roles of Felipe Segura and Manolo Arroyo, both of whom are expected to leave. A photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images captured the announcement, underscoring the visual focus on the medical revamp.

Mihic’s influence grew earlier this year when he replaced Segura in January, shortly after the controversy surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s knee injury during the 2025/26 season. Denis Doyle/Getty Images later documented the staff meeting where the new direction was outlined.

The timing coincides with Jose Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid, the Portuguese manager set to begin work on Friday. Mourinho will hold meetings with club staff before the players return for medical tests and pre‑season training on Monday.

Back in December 2025, senior figures linked the mounting injury list to shortcomings in fitness and recovery management. That assessment led to Antonio Pintus resuming a more hands‑on role with the first team, while Mihic’s responsibilities continued to expand.

The club hopes the revamped medical structure will prevent future injury nightmares as it prepares for the 2026/27 season, though integrating new staff and aligning protocols remain key challenges.