Real Madrid aims to end a two-game losing streak in La Liga this Friday when they face Celta Vigo at Balaidos. Alvaro Arbeloa’s side, having suffered consecutive defeats to Osasuna and Getafe, now trail Barcelona by four points in the title race and desperately need to secure a win in Galicia.
Despite the urgency, Real Madrid faces significant challenges due to a depleted squad. They will be without the suspended trio of Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras, and Franco Mastantuono, while numerous other players are injured, with Rodrygo Goes being the latest addition to the casualty list.
Fortunately, Arbeloa has received a positive update. Eduardo Camavinga, who missed the recent defeat to Getafe due to tooth pain, is expected to be included in the squad traveling to Vigo, according to reports from Marca.
Camavinga stands a good chance of returning to the starting lineup against Celta, though there’s speculation he might be rested to ensure his full fitness for next week’s Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Manchester City at the Bernabeu.
Defender Raul Asencio Eyes Celta Start Amidst Recovery
With Huijsen and Carreras suspended, and David Alaba facing physical issues, Real Madrid’s central defense options are severely limited. In this context, Raul Asencio is reportedly making a strong push for a return to the squad as he recovers from a recent neck injury.
Asencio sustained his injury during an on-field collision with Camavinga during Real Madrid’s victory over Benfica. This week, he recounted the incident, admitting that some of the details remain hazy.
Describing the incident, Asencio stated: “I remember a very quick play, an aerial ball, and I went for the challenge… The next thing I recall is being on the ground with the doctors after the impact with Edu. I completely lost track of time, where I was, and what was happening. My vision wasn’t clear at all, I couldn’t move, and I felt a loss of strength… At the hospital, I finally got my phone. I didn’t know the time or the final score, but I already had messages from all my teammates.”
Real Madrid’s need for Asencio in the lineup is significant, and given his participation in group training over the past few days, there’s a strong likelihood he could feature in the starting XI at Balaidos.