Mas: Real Madrid will return with a do-or-die game vs Manchester City instead of a friendly

Joaquin Mas spent three and a half season's working as a doctor at Real Madrid and he is concerned about the potential for injury when the players do return to action after the Coronavirus pause.

Particularly concerning in the view of the doctor is the fact that there won't be time for a traditional pre-season before the competitive fixtures arrive.

"Real Madrid's players are in the best hands because it's the best club in the world," Mas told MARCA.

"They have gyms in their houses and they can have good workouts with a well-designed plan.

"The problem is worse for players like Marco Asensio who need to work with the ball on the pitch as they work to get back up to match speed.

"I'm sure they know the risks at the Spanish football federation since it is presided over by Luis Rubiales, who is a former player.

"I'm sure the clubs are studying how best to return to action, in order to avoid injuries when the players return.

"There are usually three weeks of pre-season before playing again after a month off, with a few friendlies, but in Real Madrid's case they'll be returning with a do-or-die match against Manchester City.

"It'd be good for the teams to have at least 10 or 15 days to work before playing again because the workouts at home aren't the same as the workouts done in a pre-season."