Ronaldo winning race to face Villarreal

Cristiano Ronaldo's efforts on Tuesday more or less put to bed any doubts surrounding whether he will feature against Villarreal on Saturday. After chit-chatting with Ancelotti and Zidane, the Portuguese star was able to do some running out on the pitch and should now resume squad training today, Wednesday.
Raphaël Varane, meanwhile, also looks to be nearing a comeback, as he is working with the ball and can now strike it with something approaching usual power. The Frenchman, who is also doing aerobic exercises, has been working on strengthening the muscles in his legs in order to protect his knees.
Isco, however, is proceeding with caution and did not take to the turf on Tuesday, instead staying inside to continue with his electrotherapy treatment. The Spaniard is carrying a knock on his right ankle and has been advised to rest it, meaning he has been practically ruled out of Saturday's clash.
Luka Modric was another to give the pitch a miss. The Croat, who was released from his country's squad for the friendly against South Korea owing to niggling pain in his quadriceps, is being seen to by the club physios, although it is nothing serious.
Marcelo faces at least two weeks on the sidelines after straining his left thigh. The Brazilian is being pencilled in for a return in time for the derby against Atlético on 28th September.