Luka Modric was one absentee in Real Madrid’s first training sessions held in the 2015-16 pre-season campaign. The Madrid midfielder, who did not participate in any tournament this summer and was called to the first meeting with Rafa Benítez, was given permission by the club’s medical staff to postpone his arrival back.
The delay was caused by an ear infection suffered this week, with the club’s medical staff recommending against air travel. Nevertheless, Modric is due in Madrid on Saturday and, once the infection has cleared up, will travel with the rest of the squad to Melbourne on Saturday.
Other absentees at Saturday’s morning training session included Cristiano Ronaldo, who was due at the Valdebebas training complex on 12 July but will now travel directly Australia and China after his recent trip to Asia. Casemiro and James are not included in the pre-season tour and will be away until 23 July because of their participation at the Copa América.