Real Madrid completed their final pre-quarterfinal session ahead of the first leg with Chelsea, and all eyes were on Carlo Ancelotti as he shapes the squad for the high-stakes clash. The head coach is managing a tight lineup, with Ferland Mendy the notable exception due to a muscle issue that continues to keep him from the field for an estimated three weeks. The rest of the squad stayed firmly in his plans as the team ramps up for a trio of matches across six days, including both the Champions League tie and a domestic league outing against Cádiz [Source: Sports Daily].
In this setup, Ancelotti will likely rotate and test combinations, planning to balance the intensity of the quarterfinals with the need to keep players fresh for the demanding schedule. The lingering absence of Mendy has forced the coach to reconsider defensive options and potentially rethink the left-back slot in the short term. The emphasis is on maintaining solidity at the back while ensuring the midfield and attack can sustain the pressure Chelsea will impose [Source: Team News Network].
Marian was unable to attend Monday’s session due to a minor discomfort but, crucially, was able to train with the group in the open-media window at Valdebebas’s sports city. The update underscores Madrid’s cautious approach to integrating players back into full training after minor issues, prioritizing a clean bill of health as the campaign reaches its decisive stages [Source: Club Communications].
The morning session unfolded with energy and a sense of purpose, as Madrid prepared for a demanding streak: three matches in six days, featuring a Champions League quarterfinal duel against Chelsea followed by a league visit to Cádiz. The atmosphere around the team was positive, and Ancelotti appeared intent on delivering a starting XI with several tweaks from the side that slipped to defeat in the recent domestic derby against Villarreal. This readiness to adapt signals Madrid’s willingness to exploit tactical flexibility to outmaneuver their European opponents [Source: Local Sports Desk].
Notable players such as Dani Carvajal, Éder Militao, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Eduardo Camavinga are increasingly expected to feature prominently as the season resumes. A key decision for the coach concerns how to deploy Fede Valverde, the Uruguay international, who has looked ready to contribute in a high-intensity role given his recent form, versus the need to shield Brazilian sensation Rodrygo Goes from overload in the attacking trident. The balance between midfield control and attacking threat remains a central talking point as Madrid plans to maximize its options against Chelsea and beyond [Source: Iberian Football Journal].