Real Madrid see three return to training before Champions League meeting with Inter Milan

Real Madrid have been handed a boost before Tuesday’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan, with Aurelien Tchouameni, Endrick and Thiago Pitarch returning to group training on Sunday.

The trio had been working individually as they recovered from injuries, but took part in the main session as Real Madrid prepared to host the Italian side in the league phase of the competition.

Spanish radio journalist Arancha Rodriguez of COPE reported that the three players trained alongside their team-mates. Ferland Mendy, Eder Militao, Rodrygo Goes and Raul Asencio, however, continued with their respective treatment and rehabilitation programmes.

Endrick and Pitarch could now be included in the squad to face Inter, according to Rodriguez, with both players considered to have made sufficient progress to resume collective work.

Their possible return comes at an important stage for Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho. The Spanish club are seeking a response after suffering a 1-0 defeat by Real Betis in their most recent La Liga match at La Cartuja.

All seven players had completed individual training in the days leading up to that fixture as part of their recovery and preparation programmes. The latest developments suggest that Tchouameni, Endrick and Pitarch are further along in their recoveries than the other four players.

The meeting with Inter represents an early test for Mourinho’s side in the Champions League. Real Madrid will be looking to recover from the disappointment against Real Betis while also making a statement to their leading European rivals.

Paris Saint-Germain have won the last two editions of Europe’s premier club competition under manager Luis Enrique, and Real Madrid will hope to begin their own campaign by showing they remain serious contenders for the trophy.

The fixture will also give Mourinho an opportunity to assess the fitness of the returning players before deciding on his final squad. A place in the matchday group for Endrick and Pitarch would provide added attacking and midfield options, although their involvement will depend on the medical and technical staff’s final assessment.

Mendy, Militao, Rodrygo Goes and Asencio are not yet back in full training and remain on individual recovery plans.

The Champions League league-phase match against Inter Milan takes place next Tuesday, with Real Madrid beginning their campaign at home. The Italian visitors will provide a significant challenge as Mourinho’s team attempt to put the defeat by Real Betis behind them and start their European schedule positively.

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