Several Returns Confirmed for Madrid Against Real

Madrid—Real Madrid will take the pitch at the Bernabéu tonight with a welcome injection of experience, as interim coach Xabi Arbeloa confirmed the return of three senior players for the crucial LaLiga showdown against Real Sociedad.

Full-back Ferland Mendy, versatile defender Antonio Rüdiger, and English right-back Trent have all been cleared and feature on Arbeloa’s official squad list, providing a timely boost to a squad still depleted by injury. Rüdiger’s availability is viewed as especially significant given the defensive leadership he brings to the back line.

While the club remains without headline absentees Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and Éder Militao, the gradual thinning of the medical report offers optimism ahead of the season’s decisive stretch. Academy products Cestero and Palacios have also retained their places among the first-team call-ups, underlining the club’s continued faith in its youth pipeline.

There is additional encouragement surrounding Dani Carvajal, who could see his first minutes after a spell on the sidelines, though any appearance is expected to be carefully managed. With Barcelona having edged ahead in the title race, Los Blancos know anything short of victory tonight would hand further initiative to their Catalan rivals.

Kickoff at the Bernabéu is set for tonight, and the fixture now carries the weight of a must-win encounter for the record champions.