By SABC Sport
13th September 2024
Jude Bellingham, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Eder Militao have returned to full training with the squad, just two days before the match at Anoeta. All three players are expected to be available, a huge relief for Ancelotti, who faced concerns over squad depth heading into this important phase of the season.
After a period of uncertainty regarding the fitness of key players, Real Madrid's medical staff cleared Bellingham, Tchouameni, and Militao for participation. The trio were closely monitored in training on Thursday, with the international break having given Ancelotti's staff enough time to assess their fitness.
It appears all three have passed their fitness tests, and barring any late setbacks, they should be included in the squad for the weekend clash.
"Today was a crucial day for us," Ancelotti remarked. "We needed to make sure everyone was fit and ready for what lies ahead. Having Bellingham, Tchouameni, and Militao back in the group is a big boost for us."
Of the three, Militao is expected to have the best chance of starting. His physical issues, which forced him to withdraw from Brazil's squad during the international break, now seem behind him.
The centre-back, along with Ferland Mendy, who has also returned to full fitness, is likely to feature in Ancelotti's starting XI. Bellingham and Tchouameni, on the other hand, may begin on the bench to avoid risking further injury, depending on how they feel in the final training sessions.
Meanwhile, David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, and Dani Ceballos will miss the fixture due to injuries, although Jesus Vallejo has also recovered from an adductor problem and could be available for selection.
With the team gradually regaining strength, Ancelotti will need to make careful decisions about his line-up against Real Sociedad, a match that could prove decisive as the season heats up.