Vinicius: Real Madrid expect return for Athletic clash
Madrid are optimistic that the Brazilian striker will be available to make his debut for Zinedine Zidane for the Athletic clash on 21 April.
The expected return date of Vinicius continues to be brought forward. Now AS has learned that the Brazilian expects to be back in training with the rest of his Real Madrid team mates by next Thursday. And all going well, he will be fit and ready to make his debut under Zinedine Zidane for the game against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, 21 April.
The 18-year-old has been side-lined for more than five weeks because of an ankle injury picked up against Ajax in the 4-1 defeat in the Champions League on 3 March, which saw Los Blancos eliminated from the competition at the last-16 stage.
Vinicius' rapid recovery
Vinicius has been undergoing his recovery at both Madrid’s Valdebebas training ground and his home, and hired former Santos physio, Thiago Lobo, earlier this month to help him through the process. Reports from medical staff have been excellent throughout his rehabilitation period, which has led to his prompt return to the fold. From training on 18 April, the young attacker will have three days to prepare himself for the Athletic clash.
If the most optimistic forecast is not met, AS understands that the Rio teenager will definitely be available for the trip to Getafe on Thursday, April 25. That would mean Zidane could use him for the four remaining league fixtures to ensure he is primed and ready to be selected by Brazil coach Tite for the upcoming Copa de America in June.