The countdown has begun for Real Madrid’s next two matches, which take place within a nine day span. First up is Xerez in Liga action followed by Olympique Lyonnais in the Champions League. Preparations for Saturday’s showdown began on Monday with Metzelder and Garay as the only absentees.

Los Blancos only had one day off because of the two important showdowns on the horizon. Manuel Pellegrini almost had a full squad on hand on Monday and in order to complete the roster, Real Madrid Castilla’s Juanfran was brought in to train with the first team.

The session opened with the routine warmup jog. Jose Cabello then took over to conduct fitness exercises and ball drills. The only two players to not set foot on the wet turf were Metzelder and Garay, both of whom continue their recoveries indoors.