Rodrygo returns to ball work, a crucial step in his recovery at Real Madrid.
Rodrygo‘s recovery at Real Madrid has entered a new and encouraging chapter. The young Brazilian forward, sidelined since March due to a serious right knee injury, was seen working with the ball at Valdebebas on Monday. This marks the player’s first contact with the ball since undergoing surgery, signifying a significant advancement in his rehabilitation process.
The injury, which involved a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the lateral meniscus, was the most severe of Rodrygo‘s career. Since the operation, the club has adopted a cautious approach, prioritizing the athlete’s complete recovery. The expectation is for the player to return to the field between December and January, completing a recovery period estimated between eight and nine months.
A Milestone in Rehabilitation
Rodrygo‘s return to ball work signals that the most critical stages of his recovery have been overcome. Previously, the player had already shown signs of progress by resuming running on the field in early September, a moment celebrated by the athlete himself on his social media.
Rodrygo celebrated the moment on his social media after returning to running on the field, posting:
“What a wonderful feeling to be running on the field again!”
Now, with the ball at his feet, Rodrygo is moving into a new phase, but he still needs to regain his physical condition and game rhythm. Real Madrid‘s plan remains firm with the projected return for the end of the year or early 2025.
Impact of Injury and Gradual Return
The injury sustained in March not only took Rodrygo out of action for Real Madrid but also prevented him from participating in the final stretch of last season and the World Cup with the Brazil national team. His absence was felt by the team, especially in crucial moments.
Head coach José Mourinho, who took charge of the team, has not yet been able to count on the Brazilian during preseason. Rodrygo‘s reintegration into group activities will be gradual, as dictated by the recovery protocol.
Other Good News from Valdebebas
Rodrygo‘s recovery is not the only positive news coming from Valdebebas. Center-back Éder Militão, sidelined since April due to a tendon rupture, has also taken important steps in his rehabilitation. He has already participated in part of the training with his teammates, indicating a closer return.
The medical team responsible for Militão‘s surgery was at Valdebebas to monitor the process.
“The defender is being gradually reintegrated into the squad’s activities.”
Now, the center-back has managed to participate in part of the training alongside the available players. Another player showing progress is left-back Ferland Mendy, who is also working with the ball. While Rodrygo and Mendy remain focused on their individual recoveries, Militão has already begun partial participation in collective training sessions.
Return to Training and Preparation
With the gradual reintegration of its injured players, Real Madrid resumes its training sessions at Valdebebas at full strength. The team is preparing for the upcoming challenges of the season, and the increasing presence of key players in the squad boosts morale and expectations for future competitions. The careful management of injuries and the safe return of players are crucial for the club’s success this season.
