Real Madrid have announced their squad to face Villarreal, with five players absent from José Mourinho’s matchday group alongside the return of several key figures at a crucial juncture as Los Blancos seek a swift recovery.
Real Madrid host Villarreal on Saturday at the Santiago Bernabéu in La Liga’s eighth round of fixtures, coming off a Madrid derby defeat to Atlético Madrid that leaves them trailing league leaders Barcelona by six points.
The list of absentees includes Éder Militão, Rodrygo, Raúl Asencio, and Ferland Mendy due to injury and lack of match fitness, alongside Dean Huijsen, who serves a suspension following his red card against Atlético Madrid.
While Militão has resumed partial group training, Mourinho confirmed he requires at least two additional weeks of recovery, ruling him out of upcoming clashes against AS Roma and Sevilla as well.
Mendy returned to individual pitch work on Friday for the first time, whereas Rodrygo remains far from a comeback following an anterior cruciate ligament tear and meniscus damage in his right knee. Asencio recently underwent surgery for a fracture in his right tibia.
Conversely, Kylian Mbappé was named in the squad after recovering from a hyperextension in his left knee capsule—an injury that forced his early departure from the France national team camp. The French forward completed multiple group sessions and is fully fit to start against Villarreal.
Addressing debate surrounding the player, Mourinho stated: “This means Mbappé will play; he will not be on the bench,” adding: “If he plays, it is because I am certain he has not compromised his commitment to Real Madrid.”
Vinícius Júnior was also included in the squad despite a dip in form. The Brazilian has recorded just 1 goal and 3 assists across his opening 8 appearances, marking his lowest statistical start since the COVID-19 pandemic season. Regarding his status, Mourinho remarked: “What saddens me is seeing how badly he wants to return to his best form and make a difference,” before acknowledging that maintaining his starting role is not guaranteed if resting him serves his long-term recovery.
Mbappé and Vinícius are expected to start together in attack, with Mourinho weighing his options between Yan Diomandé and Arda Güler to complete the offensive setup.
Real Madrid also welcomed back Ibrahima Konaté, while Federico Valverde was included after a rapid recovery from a severe ankle sprain, leaving central defense as the team’s primary crisis area given the simultaneous absences of Militão, Asencio, and Huijsen.
