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Rodrygo Nears Return as Real Madrid Weighs December Cup Target Against Medical Caution

Real Madrid's medical staff prefer a later comeback to protect his repaired lateral meniscus.

Overview

  • Rodrygo tore his right anterior cruciate ligament and damaged the lateral meniscus on March 2, 2026, had surgery, and missed the rest of the 2025–26 season and the 2026 World Cup.
  • He has resumed on-pitch work at Valdebebas and is following a focused rehab plan that includes a body recomposition programme to build muscle and lower recurrence risk.
  • Rodrygo’s camp and his father are targeting a Copa del Rey match on December 16 for a first competitive appearance if recovery permits.
  • Real Madrid’s medical team and club doctors are urging continued rehabilitation through the winter break and favor a safer return in January or at the Spanish Super Cup in early February because the repaired meniscus needs extra healing time.
  • When he is available, Rodrygo will face increased competition for wing minutes from Arda Guler, Yan Diomande and Brahim Díaz, and his comeback timing could affect Real Madrid’s squad choices for La Liga and Champions League matches.