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SportsEndrick and Rüdiger report to Mourinho as Real Madrid training intensifies
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Real Madrid players Endrick and Rüdiger have reported for training under manager José Mourinho after returning from World Cup duty. Both underwent medical examinations before joining the squad. Rüdiger, who played a key role for Germany after Schlotterbeck's injury, is expected to compete with Huijsen and Asencio for a starting spot, while Asencio is likely to leave. Endrick, who was on loan at Olympique Lyon last season, scored eight goals and provided nine assists in 21 matches. He is being considered as a backup for Mbappé in attack, especially with Gonzalo reportedly set to be sold to Fulham. The next batch of returning players includes Vinicius, Brahim, Courtois, and Bernardo Silva, while Bellingham, Tchouameni, Mbappé, Konaté, and Cucurella are expected back in early August.
Source report
Updated: July 29, 2026 — 11:06 CEST Author: Marco Ruiz, Real Madrid Editor-in-Chief
Good news continues for José Mourinho. After the second friendly (or training match) against Leganés — comfortably resolved 4-1 — two more World Cup players have joined the squad: Endrick and Rüdiger.
The Brazilian and the German join those who had already returned previously: Güler, Valverde, and Dumfries. Fewer players now remain to report for training.
Upcoming Returns
- Next batch: Vinicius, Brahim, Courtois, and Bernardo Silva
- Second week of August (those who reached the final stages of the World Cup): Bellingham, Tchouameni, Mbappé, Konaté, and Cucurella
Medicals and Roles
Both Endrick and Rüdiger underwent mandatory medical examinations before reporting to Mourinho.
- Rüdiger ended up playing a significant role for Germany due to Schlotterbeck's injury and started matches. His knee problems have subsided after a treatment he underwent in London. He is considered one of the pillars of Mourinho's project. With Konaté signed to be a starter, Rüdiger will compete for the other defensive spot against Huijsen and Asencio — and currently appears ahead of both. Asencio remains on the exit ramp.
- Endrick's outlook has also improved after a loan spell at Olympique Lyon during last season's winter transfer window. Xabi Alonso had prioritized Gonzalo over him, prompting the move. Now, Gonzalo is expected to be sold to Fulham. Endrick's decision proved correct after he was called up by Ancelotti for the recent World Cup. At Lyon, Endrick played 21 matches, scoring eight goals and providing nine assists, becoming one of the main attractions of the French championship.
Pre-Season Plans
Mourinho's intention is for both players to begin building match rhythm, though it appears premature for them to travel to Klagenfurt for the friendly against Fiorentina. They are expected to feature in the August 8 match against Ferencvaros in Budapest.
These early fixtures will be crucial, especially for Endrick. Mourinho plans to use him as a replacement for Mbappé at the tip of the attack — the position where he is believed to perform best — though playing on the wing remains an option. However, the shadow of Gonzalo lingers until his transfer is finalized.
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Endrick and Rüdiger Report to Mourinho as Real Madrid Training Intensifies