Real Madrid star misses group training due to overload; not a doubt for Racing Santander clash

Real Madrid star misses group training due to overload; not a doubt for Racing Santander clash Real Madrid’s impressive victory over Barcelona gave Jose Mourinho plenty of positives to build on in the coming weeks. One of the biggest positives to emerge for Los Blancos this season has been the growing influence of Arda Guler in midfield. The Turkish international played an important role in Sunday’s Clasico triumph, becoming one of Mourinho’s most trusted players. However, his absence from Wednesday’s group training session raised some concerns. According to journalist Alvaro Esteban , Guler worked indoors at Valdebebas due to muscular overload. The problem, however, is not considered serious enough to threaten his availability for Sunday’s La Liga encounter against Racing Santander. Arda Guler’s workload carefully managed after Clasico The 21-year-old completed an individual gym session rather than joining his teammates for the outdoor exercises. Captain Fede Valverde, who also experienced some discomfort against Barcelona , worked indoors, while Raul Asencio trained individually on the pitch. Guler’s individual training session is understood to have been a precaution, with the coaching staff managing his physical condition following an intense Clasico. Guler has emerged as an important star for Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Interestingly, Sunday’s encounter was the first time this season that the Turkish midfielder completed the full 90 minutes for Madrid. He produced an encouraging performance, creating problems for Barcelona’s defence and playing an important part in the move that led to Kylian Mbappe’s late winner. Mourinho has another important decision to make Guler’s growing importance has been one of the most positive developments under Mourinho this season. The midfielder has developed an excellent understanding with Mbappe, with his ability to receive between the lines and play forward passes giving Madrid another creative dimension. Mourinho needs to manage Guler’s minutes carefully. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) The Portuguese manager has even tried him out as a defensive midfielder against Sevilla, showcasing the different ways he can be used. However, Mourinho now needs to manage Guler’s minutes. Los Blancos face a difficult schedule that involves a lot of travelling. Madrid face Racing Santander before travelling to Greece for their Champions League encounter against AEK Athens. Guler’s availability does not necessarily mean Mourinho needs to start him this weekend, with other options at his disposal. Keeping him fresh for important games is necessary for Madrid, and it remains to be seen what role he plays against Racing.