Real Madrid prepare for Shakhtar match set to be played Wednesday

Real Madrid began preparations for their Champions League against Shakhtar Donetsk on Monday, according to Realmadrid.com.

This was the first official training session of the week as the players involved participated in several activities. The squad was split into two where they practiced possession and press work. The goalkeepers also worked on specific exercises and drills.

The session also featured both offensive and defensive work, including crossing and finishing practice. Dani Ceballos reportedly worked both inside the facility and outside on the training pitch. Ceballos has been out with an ankle tear he sustained with Spain at the Olympics, which has kept him out of action since August.

Fede Valverde, Gareth Bale and Rodrygo reportedly all trained indoors during the session, suggesting they will not feature on Wednesday. Valverde sustained a knee injury in El Clasico which could sideline him for up to two weeks. He could return for the Rayo Vallecano match on Saturday.

Bale is recovering from a hamstring injury he sustained while on international duty with Wales in September. Rodrygo was forced off during the Elche match over the weekend. The injury is still awaiting confirmation.

Real Madrid defeated Shakhtar by a commanding 5-0 victory during the away fixture in Kyiv two weeks ago. Los Blancos play host this time around at the Bernabeu on Wednesday.