Real Madrid reinforced for Super Cup with 10 World Cup stars
The earlier than expected Russian exits for teams such as Portugal and Spain have given Julen Lopetegui the chance to get some better preparation with his group.
Amid the huge national disappointment that came with the early elimination of Spain from the 2018 World Cup in Russia, was a slither of fortune for fans of their clubs. One in particular is LaLiga's Real Madrid who will see 10 of their stars return to duty in the Spanish capital ahead of when they were expected.
Real Madrid's World Cup reinforcements
Six of Los Blancos' players - Carvajal, Ramos, Isco, Nacho, Asensio and Lucas Vázquez - were dumped out of the tournament after a poor display against hosts Russia. Add to them top goalscorer, Cristiano Ronaldo, whose Portugal side were knocked out by Uruguay. Earlier still, following the completion of the three group games, Real Madrid players heading away from the Fifa tournament were Keylor, Achraf and Kroos. Very few people would have had Germany and Kroos out before the last 16, including the man himself.
With the European Super Cup taking place in Tallin (Estonia) on August 15, newly installed manager Julen Lopetegui will be able to work with all these players in an attempt to be in good condition to compete with Atlético.
Los Blancos arrival dates
Following the logic that players will have a month off after their Russian exertions, something that has become the norm at Madrid, Achraf would be the first to get back to the club, on July 26. Keylor and Kroos would join up two days later then, Cristiano on August 1. The six Spaniards would then arrive the next day.
Madrid's pre-season friendlies
Madrid have four friendly matches this summer: on July 28 against Puebla, on July 31 against Manchester United, on August 4 against Juventus and finally on August 7 against Roma. This allows for all ten players to get some playing time ahead of the Estonia trip`, Lopetegui's first official match in charge.
