Real Madrid forward gets closer to returning from long-term injury after key step forward

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo is making significant progress in his recovery from a long-term ACL injury, taking a key step forward in his rehabilitation. According to MARCA, the Brazilian player touched a football again at Valdebebas, a crucial moment that signifies his commitment to returning to the pitch after more than six months away.

Rodrygo suffered the injury in March, which ruled him out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the end of the 2023 season. The injury, a torn ACL and lateral meniscus in his right knee, required surgery on March 10, initiating a rehabilitation process estimated to last eight to nine months. Despite the lengthy recovery, Rodrygo has been progressing steadily and methodically, avoiding any rush that could jeopardize his healing.

The first major milestone came in September when he returned to the training ground to run separately from the group. After several weeks of controlled running, Rodrygo has now taken his first contact with the ball, entering the final stages of the rehabilitation process, with his return expected between December and January. Rodrygo's return will be significant for Real Madrid, as his absence has impacted the team's dynamics.

Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy, two other injured players, are also in the later stages of their own recoveries and have already begun working alongside their teammates. This series of gradual returns will provide Jose Mourinho with reinforcements as the team prepares to field players who have been sidelined since the early stages of the season.