Rodrygo’s Injury Cloud Over Madrid Ahead of Mestalla Clash
6 February 2026
Madrid Faces Injury Crunch Ahead of Valencia Showdown
Rodrygo is likely to miss Valencia due to a left leg muscle issue.
Alvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid's coach, finds himself in a tough spot ahead of the Spanish league clash with Valencia, as injuries bite into the attack.
AS reported this Friday that Rodrygo's involvement is doubtful after this morning's session, with the youngster limited to intra-club training.
He is reported to suffer a left-leg pain, a muscular load from the week’s intense work overseen by Antonio Pintus.
Rodrygo had been a starter option in Mestalla due to Vinícius Júnior's suspension for cards after his red vs Rayo Vallecano.
He is now joined by others in the casualty list, including Jude Bellingham, likely out for about a month, and Éder Militão, sidelined long-term.
There is, however, a glimmer: Rudiger and Carvajal could re-enter the match squad after Saturday’s morning session, with a decision to be made before Madrid travels to Mestalla.
On Friday’s practice, the travel decision for Rodrygo will be taken, yet with no full training with the group on Thursday, a starting role against Valencia seems unlikely.
The development comes as Rodrygo misses Champions League knockout legs with Benfica after a direct red for arguing with the referee in that Portuguese clash.
Punchline 1: If injuries were a transfer, Madrid would have a full squad by now—even the bench would need a passport.
Punchline 2: Rodrygo's left leg is practicing a strategic off-season—because even legends need a little extra vacation before a big game.
