Real Madrid welcomed Andriy Lunin back to training on Friday, reigniting the debate over who should start in goal for the Copa del Rey final. Absent from the session was Kylian Mbappe, who has been diagnosed with a sprained right ankle.
Following a day off to reflect on their Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Arsenal, Carlo Ancelotti's squad resumed training at the Valdebebas training complex.
With the disappointment of that European elimination still lingering—particularly the manner of it, after 180 minutes of near-total impotence—the players now turn their focus to salvaging the season with a push for the La Liga title and a domestic cup triumph.
Lunin's return, having recovered from a calf issue, offers a timely boost. The Ukrainian trained normally on Thursday and is expected to be included in the squad for Sunday's crucial league fixture against Athletic Club at the Santiago Bernabeu.
His comeback also reopens a key question for Ancelotti: will he keep faith with Lunin—his regular choice in the Copa del Rey—when Real face Barcelona in the final on 26 April, or turn to first-choice Thibaut Courtois, should he be fit?
Sunday's match offers a chance for Real Madrid to respond to their midweek setback. Athletic Club arrive buoyed by their Europa League semi-final qualification and in high spirits, in stark contrast to the mood in Madrid.
It will be the first match back at the Bernabeu since Tuesday's failed comeback attempt, and a true test of the team's resolve.
Mbappe will be absent regardless, suspended following his red card against Alaves. The club have since confirmed he also sustained a sprain in his right ankle, adding a physical concern to his enforced spell on the sidelines.