Fede Valverde has been cleared for Real Madrid’s matchday squad, overcoming a late sprain that had left his availability in doubt until the final moments of preparation. His inclusion provides a critical boost for manager José Mourinho as the team looks to recover from a defeat in their previous league fixture. The squad list for Saturday’s showdown features a deep rotation of talent, including stars such as Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Júnior, all aiming to secure a win on home soil.
Securing these points is a priority for Mourinho, who identifies Villarreal as a high-level opponent with Champions League quality. Despite the visitor's current standing, the manager expects them to climb the table rapidly as the season progresses. The preparation for this clash proved unconventional, as the squad was fragmented by the international break, leaving Mourinho with only two full days to train with his complete roster. Both clubs faced similar logistical hurdles in integrating players returning from national team duties.
Managerial focus remains on squad management and professional conduct during this busy stretch. Mourinho emphasized that his players have been exemplary in their approach to recovery and training despite external scrutiny. Beyond Valverde, the manager confirmed that injury management, including monitoring Mbappé’s knee, has been a priority for the medical staff to ensure the team remains competitive. The squad is now focused entirely on the 90 minutes at the Santiago Bernabéu, where they aim to capitalize on home advantage to regain momentum in the league standings.