Mourinho’s Real Madrid take shape as Mbappe, Cucurella and Konate return to training

Kylian Mbappe, Marc Cucurella and Ibrahima Konate joined Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid squad for their first collective training session on Monday after completing mandatory medical checks at Real Madrid City.

The three players reported to the club’s training complex before taking part in the group’s work under the Portuguese manager. Their arrival marks another step in Real Madrid’s preparations for the new season, although Mourinho will have to wait until Wednesday before having his full group of currently available players together.

Real Madrid said the medical process followed the usual procedure for players joining the squad or returning from holiday.

“The three players underwent the first part of their medical examination at Real Madrid City and will complete the rest of the tests after training at the Hospital Bupa Sanitas Valdebebas,” the club’s official website said.

The examinations were carried out before the players joined their team-mates on the training pitch. Mbappe, Cucurella and Konate are now part of Mourinho’s working group as the squad continues its preparations ahead of the start of competitive football.

Tchouameni and Bellingham due on Wednesday

Real Madrid’s squad will not be complete until Wednesday, when France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni and England midfielder Jude Bellingham are expected to report for collective training.

Their return will give Mourinho access to the full squad currently available to him. It will also provide the manager with a clearer view of the tactical options at his disposal before Real Madrid begin their official fixtures.

The arrival of Tchouameni and Bellingham will complete the current phase of the club’s pre-season preparations. Until then, Mourinho will continue working with a group that has been gradually expanded by players returning from their breaks and completing the required medical procedures.

The Portuguese coach will therefore have to assess the squad in stages, with three players now integrated into group training and two more expected to follow later in the week.

Further changes remain possible

Despite the progress made in assembling the squad, Real Madrid’s playing group may still change before the summer transfer window closes at the end of this month.

The club continues to consider several options in the transfer market. Those possibilities include bringing in further new signings and allowing some players to leave if they do not form part of Mourinho’s plans for the coming season.

No final decisions on those potential changes are detailed, but the situation means the squad seen in training this week may not be the one that begins the campaign. Real Madrid are continuing to evaluate their options while Mourinho works towards establishing the group and tactical approach he will use when competitive matches begin.

For now, the focus is on completing the squad’s return to training. Mbappe, Cucurella and Konate have joined the group, while Tchouameni and Bellingham are expected on Wednesday, giving Mourinho a fuller picture of his available options before the season gets under way.