Madrid's Injury Crisis Deepens: Seven Stars Missing for Monaco Clash
Real Madrid face Champions League test against Monaco with seven key players unavailable as Arbeloa calls up academy talent to bolster depleted squad.
Real Madrid’s injury woes continue to pile up as they prepare to host Monaco in Tuesday night’s crucial Champions League fixture at the Bernabéu.
Depleted Defence
The Spanish giants will be missing seven first-team players for the European clash, leaving manager Álvaro Arbeloa with significant selection headaches. The defensive unit has been particularly hard hit:
- Antonio Rüdiger - The German centre-back had been in contention but staff opted against risking his fitness
- Éder Militão - Still sidelined with injury
- Ferland Mendy - Unavailable through injury
- Trent Alexander-Arnold - Continues his recovery on the treatment table
- Carreras - Suspended for the fixture
Forward Problems
The attacking department isn’t faring much better:
- Rodrygo - The Brazilian had some chance of making the squad but ultimately wasn’t risked
- Brahim Díaz - Only just finished his Africa Cup of Nations commitments on Sunday
The midfield remains Arbeloa’s only fully-fit department, providing some small consolation ahead of what promises to be a proper test against the French side.
Academy Reinforcements
In response to the injury crisis, Arbeloa has called up two Castilla midfielders to bolster the squad:
- Pol Fortuny
- Mesonero
Both youngsters could get a chance to shine as Madrid chase three points that would significantly strengthen their position in the race for a top-8 finish - the first major objective in their 2025-26 Champions League campaign.
Full Squad List
Goalkeepers: Courtois, Lunin, Fran González
Defenders: Carvajal, Alaba, Asencio, Fran García, Huijsen
Midfielders: Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Tchouameni, Arda Güler, Ceballos, Pol Fortuny, Mesonero
Forwards: Vini Jr., Mbappé, Gonzalo, Mastantuono
With the squad stretched thinner than a goalkeeper’s gloves, it’ll be interesting to see how the Bernabéu boys cope against the team from the principality. One thing’s for certain - those fit enough to play will need to put in a right proper shift.