Real Madrid able to joke around in training ahead of CSKA Moscow dead rubber as they look to turnaround dreadful season
- Real Madrid training on Tuesday was filled with jokes as players let off steam
- The La Liga side are already through to the Champions League last-16 stages
- Santiago Solari is expected to ring the changes for the visit of CSKA Moscow
Real Madrid’s stars were in the mood to joke around as they coasted through training on Tuesday ahead of their dead rubber tie against CSKA Moscow.
The La Liga giants are already assured of progression to the last-16 while their Russian visitors attempt to better the result of Group G rivals Viktoria Plzen in a bid to secure a spot in the Europa League.
But with nothing riding on the game for Madrid, Gareth Bale and Co were more than happy to joke around in the session with boss Santiago Solari likely to take the opportunity to make several changes to his side.
Gareth Bale could not contain his laughter during a relaxed Real Madrid training session
The Welshman had a taste for the spectacular as he and his team-mates got down to work
Marcelo was the subject of jokes from his team-mate and the Brazilian was left bemused by it
Rising star Vinicius Junior is pushing to start against CSKA given Madrid are already qualified
Among the changes for the hosts looks set to be Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Nacho Fernandez dropping out.
Young prospect Fede Valverde could be handed a chance in midfield alongside Marcos Llorente in Kroos’ absence.
Madrid have endured a tough start to the campaign which has already seen the successor to Zinedine Zidane – Julen Lopetegui – sacked.
Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modric was relaxed during the sunny session on Tuesday morning
Isco caught Toni Kroos by surprise as he jumped onto his back with the mood high in the camp
But while troubles appear to be mounting domestically, current boss Solari has tasked his players with competing for all the available honours in Spain and in Europe this season.
When asked about whether La Liga or the Champions League is the priority, the 42-year-old told reporters: ‘Those two and also the Copa del Rey and the Club World Cup.
‘We have to be alive in all of the competitions. I like them all and that’s what we should aspire to.’
Boss Santiago Solari will make changes but has urged his squad to compete for all the titles
Madrid have had a difficult start to the campaign but are looking to defend their European title
