Rome awaits Real Madrid for the second matchday of the Champions League league phase, with José Mourinho’s side arriving in Italy short of four players but carrying recent wins from both Europe and Spain.
Madrid’s absences for the Roma trip
- Ferland Mendy has resumed training after damaging the rectus femoris in his right thigh around five months ago, but he is not yet ready to be selected for the visit to the Italian capital.
- Éder Militão also remains unavailable as he nears the end of a lengthy recovery from a hamstring issue. The Brazilian’s setback after last season’s match against Alavés ruled him out of the 2026 World Cup.
- Rodrygo will miss the Roma fixture following knee surgery in March. His successful operation began a rehabilitation programme expected to last several months, and the injury likewise prevented his World Cup participation.
- Raúl Asencio is the most recent addition to the treatment room. Medical examinations identified a muscle injury to the rectus femoris of his right thigh, with the club stating that his return date will depend on his progress.
The medical statement on Asencio said: “Following tests carried out today by Real Madrid’s medical staff, Raúl Asencio has been diagnosed with a muscle injury to the rectus femoris of his right thigh. His recovery will be monitored.”
Huijsen returns as Madrid seek another European result
There is one defensive boost for the visitors. Dean Huijsen is available again after serving the consequence of his dismissal in the Madrid derby against Atlético Madrid in LaLiga.
Real Madrid opened their Champions League campaign with a significant home victory over Inter at the Santiago Bernabéu. They then followed it with a narrow league success against Villarreal, giving the Spanish club momentum before crossing Europe for a demanding evening in Rome.
The encounter with Roma brings an early league-phase test away from home, with Mourinho required to manage a reduced group while Madrid attempt to build on their opening European win.
