League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Injuries

Real Madrid faces defensive challenges before La Liga opener against Espanyol

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 6:20 AM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

Real Madrid faces defensive challenges before La Liga opener against Espanyol

Summary

Real Madrid is heading into their La Liga opener against Espanyol with a defensive crisis. Eder Militao remains sidelined due to a long-term injury, and Raul Asencio is set to miss six weeks with a thigh strain. Currently, only Antonio Rudiger, Dean Huijsen, and summer signing Ibrahima Konate are fit as senior center-backs. With limited options available, younger players Joan Martinez and Mario Rivas may also be needed to fill the gaps in defense. Madrid's match kicks off next week as the team strives to solidify their defensive lineup.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Real Madrid has only three fit senior centre-backs for the opener.
•Eder Militao continues recovery from a long-term injury.
•Raul Asencio expected to be out for six weeks with a thigh injury.
•Younger players Joan Martinez and Mario Rivas impressed in pre-season.
•Match against Espanyol is set to begin next week.

Latest Updates

6:20 AMYahoo Sports — Real Madrid hit by major defensive shortage ahead of La Liga opener

What they're saying

"
Real Madrid are heading into the start of the new La Liga season with an early concern at the heart of their defence, as injuries have left Jose Mourinho with only three fit senior centre-backs for th...
— Yahoo Sports

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