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Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has resisted the temptation to rush back a fit-again Gareth Bale their Champions League clash today against an on-form Napoli backed by Diego Maradona.
Bale returned to training for the first time since suffering ankle ligament damage in November on Sunday and has been left out of Zidane’s 19-man squad.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been passed fit, though, as the Portuguese has shrugged off a knock picked up in Saturday’s 3-1 win at Osasuna to keep Los Blancos top of La Liga.
“He has had nearly three months out and we have to go slowly with Gareth,” said Zidane yesterday.
“Everyone wants to win the Champions League, but it is a hard and long road and we are on that path.
“The good thing is that we are in good shape. We have everyone fit, that means it will be harder to pick the squad, but I’m happy to see everyone ready and committed for the return of the Champions League.”
Napoli’s sensational free-scoring form that has seen them reel off an 18-game unbeaten run has seen the Italians’ hopes of shocking the holders soar.
Among the expected 10 000 strong travelling support will be Napoli’s greatest ever player as Maradona arrived in Madrid on Monday.
“Thankfully he is not playing! We are happy about that,” said Madrid midfielder Luka Modric on the presence of Maradona.
“He is one of the most important players in the history of football. It is nice he is here to see the game live.”
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