Valverde Returns to Real Madrid Training, Mourinho Has 10 First-Team Players Available

Federico Valverde has ended his 24-day vacation and reported back to Real Madrid's training base, becoming the second key player to return after Arda Güler. Valverde's early return follows Uruguay's disappointing World Cup exit in the group stage. Manager José Mourinho now has 10 first-team players available for training, including Lunin, Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Camavinga, and Valverde himself. Most World Cup knockout-stage participants remain on vacation, so youth academy players supplement the sessions. Valverde has also been officially named Real Madrid's first captain following Dani Carvajal's departure, with Vinícius Júnior, Thibaut Courtois, and Rodrygo as subsequent captains.