February 03, (THEWILL) – Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has offered an update on the fitness of star striker Karim Benzema and centre-back Eder Militao after their 2-0 win over Valencia.
Benzema assisted both goals, but was forced to leave the field with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. Ancelotti confirmed that Benzema’s injury is “nothing major” and that he believes the striker will be back in time for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League last-16 match against Liverpool on February 21.
However, Ancelotti had bad news for Real fans regarding Militao, who had to be substituted after picking up a groin injury. “The injury to Militao is more serious. [He] will not be available at the weekend against Mallorca”, Ancelotti confirmed.
Both players are now in doubt for the upcoming Club World Cup in Morocco, which will create selection headaches for Ancelotti. The injury concerns for Real Madrid do not stop there, as David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, and Lucas Vazquez are all currently injured, leaving limited options for Ancelotti in defence.
In the absence of Benzema, Real’s lack of depth in the attack is well known, but Ancelotti has not shied away from using Rodrygo in a central role and may do so if Benzema is unavailable. Mariano Diaz remains as emergency cover.
