Wednesday marks four months since Raphael Varane injured his meniscus. The Frenchman was operated on the following day and the extent of the damage didn't appear too serious.

His recovery time was estimated at between six and eight weeks, meaning he was expected to be back for the start of Real's pre-season. He was well on track and followed a specific recuperation plan in Lens when he was on holiday.

On 7th August it seemed he had recovered when he joined the squad for training in Miami. He managed to get through the session unscathed, but then suffered a setback and had to stop days later.

The defender's knee injury was delicate and a risky matter. The club designed a new training plan which involved strengthening the muscular balance in order to protect the knee from the strain of high-level competition. The Frenchman's explosive pace and acceleration could prove to be a damaging factor, which means he needs a strong musculature.

Varane is now close to recovery and will be back in training with the squad in a couple of weeks providing there are no more setbacks. The date coincides with the Madrid derby.

The French centre-back has been working with the ball and seems comfortable. He is also performing aerobic training and has needed a component of protein in order to enhance his performance.

The 20-year-old defender will have to continue working to regain strength and power to allow him to compete without any risk. The player is itching to return to action and he will do so at a higher level of fitness.