Real Madrid re-hire former medical staff chief to stem injury problems

Real Madrid have decided to take decisive action after a growing injury crisis raised serious concerns inside the club.

According to an update shared by AS, the club hase opted to bring back Niko Mihic into the heart of the first team’s daily operations.

Advertisement

Mihic, who previously worked closely with former managers Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti, had remained connected to Real Madrid in an advisory role after stepping away from his frontline duties. That, however, is now changing.

The former club doctor has been cleared to return to the day-to-day routine at Valdebebas and will take on a supervisory role, overseeing all medical and operational aspects related to the first team.

Growing worry at Real Madrid

The decision has not been taken lightly, as Kylian Mbappe’s recent injury proved to be a tipping point for the club’s hierarchy.

It was not seen as an isolated incident, but rather the final warning sign in what has become a worrying pattern.

Real Madrid have re-hired their former doctor. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images)

Advertisement

As such, the Frenchman’s setback exposed deeper concerns regarding injury management, recovery timelines, and the overall medical strategy.

To put things in perspective, Mbappe’s injury marked the 23rd injury of the season for Real Madrid, a figure that has alarmed those in charge.

While injuries are part of football, the volume and recurrence have prompted internal reflection.

The club believe that immediate changes were necessary, not only to reduce the number of physical setbacks but also to improve the accuracy of diagnoses and ensure tailored recovery plans for each player.

In that context, Mihic’s return is seen as a stabilising move. He is a trusted figure within the club, particularly by president Florentino Perez, and his experience with elite squads gives him the authority to intervene where needed.

His role will not be limited to treatment alone, but will extend to supervision, coordination, and decision-making across the entire medical structure.