Muscle problem puts Cucurella’s Inter Milan place in doubt as Real Madrid stumble

Real Madrid’s preparations for their Champions League opener against Inter Milan have been disrupted by a late fitness concern for Marc Cucurella, who suffered muscle cramps during their defeat by Real Betis.

The Spanish full-back was forced to leave the pitch in the closing stages of the match, which ended in Real Madrid’s first defeat of the season. The setback came just days before the club’s opening European fixture against Inter Milan next Tuesday.

According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Cucurella’s condition is not currently considered serious. However, his chances of recovering in time for the meeting with Inter Milan appear limited.

Real Madrid are not due to return to training until next Sunday, leaving the defender with little time to prove his fitness before the Champions League match. He is therefore regarded as a potential absentee for the game.

Cucurella had started against Real Betis and appeared to have moved ahead of Alvaro Carreras in the team’s selection plans. His departure was caused by muscular discomfort linked to the cramps, rather than a confirmed serious injury.

The timing of the problem is particularly inconvenient for Real Madrid, who already have an expanding list of unavailable players. Aurelien Tchouameni, Eder Militao, Rodrygo, Ferland Mendy and Endrick are all absent because of injuries.

The club must also cope without Arda Guler, Bernardo Silva and Eduardo Camavinga, who are unavailable through suspension. Cucurella’s possible absence would add another concern for the coaching staff before a fixture that was already expected to provide an early test of the side’s strength.

Real Madrid’s medical and coaching teams will monitor Cucurella’s condition over the coming days before deciding whether he can play any part against Inter Milan. The club’s late return to training means there is little opportunity to assess him fully before the match.

The importance of the Champions League opener has increased following the defeat by Real Betis. That result not only ended Real Madrid’s unbeaten start to the season but also placed greater focus on how the team responds in Europe.

The encounter with Inter Milan will now represent an early examination of Real Madrid’s ability to deal with their growing injury and suspension problems. Cucurella’s availability remains uncertain, with the club awaiting a clearer assessment before making its final plans for the match.