Real Madrid are stepping up their preparations for Sunday's blockbuster Clásico against Barcelona at Camp Nou, with the stakes higher than ever in this La Liga showdown. The latest training session at Valdebebas saw the squad run through a series of drills designed to fine-tune their game plan for the trip to Catalonia.
After warming up with rondos and light exercises, the focus shifted to possession-based work and finishing drills. The session wrapped up with an intense small-sided match on a reduced pitch, giving the coaching staff a chance to assess tactical sharpness ahead of what could be a defining moment in the title race.
Injury concerns continue to cast a shadow over Real Madrid's preparations. Dani Carvajal, Arda Güler, Ferland Mendy, Éder Militão, and Rodrygo Goes all remained in recovery mode away from the main group. But the biggest question mark surrounds Kylian Mbappé, who is racing against time to be fit for El Clásico.
The French superstar has been training individually as he battles back from a semitendinosus injury in his left leg, sustained against Betis. Real Madrid had originally scheduled tests today to evaluate his progress but have now pushed back the MRI scan until tomorrow. If the results are encouraging, Mbappé could partially rejoin group training on Thursday—a significant step that would boost his chances of making the squad for Sunday's match. For now, his availability remains uncertain, leaving fans on edge.
Adding to the injury list, Dani Ceballos has been ruled out after reporting discomfort in his right ankle. The midfielder has been training indoors after being left out of the last two matchday squads amid reports of tension with manager Álvaro Arbeloa. His absence further complicates Madrid's midfield options during this critical stretch of the season.
There is at least some good news for Los Blancos: Thibaut Courtois is set to return between the posts. The Belgian goalkeeper has been training normally with the group and is expected to reclaim his starting spot against Barcelona. Courtois has been sidelined for 51 days since suffering an injury during the second leg of the Champions League clash against Manchester City on March 17. His absence has been keenly felt, but his return provides a major boost to Real Madrid's defensive solidity as they prepare for one of the biggest matches of the season.