Real Madrid inspected Club World Cup pitches to assess risk for players returning from injury | OneFootball

Real Madrid did not have the best of starts to their FIFA Club World Cup campaign, drawing 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal.

Real Madrid’s next match is on June 22, when they take on Mexican side Pachuca at the Bank of America stadium in North Carolina.

Having played their first match in rough terrain, however, Real Madrid appear to have grown a bit wary of the pitch conditions in the United States, which may be sensitive to many European players.

Real Madrid inspected pitches for upcoming matches

According to MARCA, Real Madrid took no chances ahead of their next matches and sent emissaries to inspect the quality of the pitches at the stadiums they are scheduled to play in.

The move was made after concerns were raised by FIFA and reinforced by previous bad experiences on American soil, particularly injuries to key players during past pre-season tours.

The inspection team prepared a full report that was handed over to the club’s medical department.

Real Madrid are determined to avoid any injury crisis heading into the new season. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

After reviewing the findings, the medical team advised against using players who have suffered ACL injuries in recent times, namely Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and David Alaba.

This recommendation does not necessarily mean the trio won’t feature at all during the tournament, but it introduces an element of caution.

Ultimately, any decision regarding their participation will be made collaboratively between the player, medical staff, and coach Xabi Alonso, based on how the players feel physically.

So far, Militao is said to be ahead in terms of recovery and integration with the group, while Carvajal and Alaba continue to take it slower.