Real Madrid have received a significant fitness boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League league-phase opener against Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabéu. Spanish full-back Marc Cucurella has been cleared to start Tuesday's fixture despite picking up a knock during the weekend defeat to Real Betis, offering manager José Mourinho some relief in a mounting injury crisis.
Medical assessments confirmed that Cucurella's discomfort from the Betis match was merely a minor muscular strain rather than a significant problem. The 26-year-old defender trained and was evaluated ahead of the European campaign's opening night, with doctors giving him the green light to feature in the starting eleven. His availability eases immediate defensive concerns for Los Blancos as they launch their continental challenge.
Defensive Troubles Mount for Real Madrid
However, Mourinho's defensive options remain stretched by multiple absences. Éder Militão, Raúl Asencio and Rodrygo have all been ruled out of the Inter encounter, while midfield anchor Aurélien Tchouaméni is unlikely to make the matchday squad despite returning to group training. This combination of injuries forces the Portuguese tactician to make difficult selection choices as Real Madrid begin what is expected to be a demanding group-phase campaign.
Cucurella's confirmation as fit represents one of few positive developments in the injury department. The former Brighton and Hove Albion player has established himself as a reliable presence in Madrid's left-back role. With central defenders sidelined and midfield options limited, retaining an experienced full-back is crucial for maintaining defensive stability against a team of Inter Milan's attacking pedigree. The Inter clash kicks off Real Madrid's push for a fifth Champions League title in nine seasons.
