Real Madrid defender aiming to return against Arsenal; midfielder targeting comeback vs Alaves | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been hit hard by injuries this season, losing several important players at various points throughout the course of the campaign.

But as the team gears up for a gruelling run of fixtures after the ongoing international break, Carlo Ancelotti could be greeted with some welcome news on the injury front.

Indeed, as per Melchor Ruiz of COPE, the injured Real Madrid duo of Ferland Mendy and Dani Ceballos have used the international break to focus on their recovery, with the goal of returning to action sooner than expected.

Both players, sidelined by injuries, remained in Madrid instead of joining their respective national teams.

Mendy targeting return vs Arsenal

Mendy suffered a hamstring injury during Real Madrid’s penalty shootout victory over Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second-leg fixture. The Frenchman was expected to be out for a period of about four weeks.

However, the left-back has been working hard on his recovery during the international break. As such, Mendy is targeting a return for the first leg of the Arsenal vs. Real Madrid UCL quarter-final tie on 8th April in England, which would be an ideal comeback scenario.

The full-back’s presence would be a significant boost for Ancelotti’s defence ahead of a crucial fixture.

Ceballos eyeing comeback vs Alaves

Ceballos’ recovery is progressing well. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Ceballos was sidelined due to a leg injury in late February, sustained during the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad. The midfielder was expected to be out of action for two months.

But things have been progressing well as far as the Spaniard’s recovery is concerned. As such, he is working towards being fit for the Alaves vs. Real Madrid match on 13th April at Mendizorroza.

The former Real Betis midfielder is determined to make his return for this important La Liga encounter.

Meanwhile, there is also encouraging news regarding long-term absentees Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal. Both players are progressing well and are hopeful of recovering in time for the FIFA Club World Cup.