Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni return to Real Madrid training ahead of Barcelona clash

Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni both took part in training on Friday as Real Madrid stepped up preparations for the decisive La Liga Clasico against FC Barcelona, with fitness and off-field tensions dominating the build-up to the high-stakes encounter.

Mbappé’s involvement offered a timely boost after the striker spent two weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

The French forward, who leads Real Madrid’s scoring charts this season, completed part of the group session two days before the squad travels to Barcelona, signalling a possible return to action in one of Spanish football’s most watched fixtures.

Tchouaméni also returned to the pitch, training the day after a reported training ground altercation with teammate Federico Valverde, an incident that allegedly left Valverde requiring stitches.

The midfielder’s presence in the session suggests he remains in contention despite the disciplinary backdrop surrounding the squad.

Real Madrid have confirmed that disciplinary proceedings have been opened involving both Tchouaméni and Valverde following the clash. The episode adds to a growing list of internal issues as pressure mounts on the squad during a difficult campaign.

Tensions within the dressing room are understood to be heightened amid the prospect of a second consecutive season without major silverware.

With Barcelona holding an 11-point lead at the top of La Liga, the Catalan side require only a draw in the Clasico to secure the league title, increasing the urgency for Real Madrid to respond both on and off the pitch as the season reaches its defining moment.