Real Madrid returned to training this week after two days off following their win against Rayo Vallecano - but on Wednesday their session looked quite different. Several players, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, shared photos of themselves wearing the masks on social media, sparking curiosity about them. The masks have been introduced under the guidance of Antonio Pintus, Real Madrid's performance manager, who oversees the players' physical conditioning. Worn during short 15-20 minute stress tests, Pintus told Real Madrid TV that the Cosmed K5 masks are "designed to find out the players' aerobic and anaerobic thresholds and their current power". With crucial La Liga fixtures against Valencia and Real Sociedad approaching, as well as Champions League knockout ties against Benfica, Real Madrid will be keen to ensure their squad is operating at peak physical levels as the season enters a decisive phase.

Source: BBC February 05, 2026 17:24 UTC