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Real Madrid face a defensive dilemma after their two first-choice center-backs Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane suffered an injury on international service.
Ramos was withdrawn in the 43rd minute of Spain’s 6-0 victory over Germany in the UEFA Nations League, while Varane was substituted at half-time against Sweden on Tuesday night.
To add to Zinedine Zidane’s headache, Madrid also miss their third-choice center-back Eder Militao, after he tested positive for coronavirus on November 2.
Ramos became Europe’s most capped player on Saturday, playing his 178th international match, but was unable to complete the game.
Ramos was seen gesturing towards the back of his right thigh as he limped away after the halftime break.
Fortunately, Spain was already 3-0 up after Álvaro Morata, Ferran Torres and Rodri found the net.
A statement from the Spanish soccer federation admitted that Ramos suffered “serious discomfort in the right hamstring”, while coach Luis Enrique played down his injury, saying it was not “too serious”.
“We do not believe that the injuries are too serious or important,” said Luis Enrique in his post-match press conference.
But it is still an unpleasant time for everyone. I feel bad for their clubs but that’s the way it is. ‘
Ramos is expected to undergo further tests on Wednesday and an evaluation of his injury will be done following the results.
Meanwhile, Varane, who came out during France’s 4-2 win over Sweden in Paris, has his own hamstring problems.
France coach Didier Deschamps confirmed his injury and said: ‘[Lucas] Hernández and Varane left because they had little problems. ‘
Zidane expects both injuries to be minor and each to be fit on his return to Real Madrid, as the Spanish champion has a significant streak of matches ahead of him.
His team will face second-placed Villarreal on Saturday after the international break.
If Zidane’s team is victorious, it will move to one spot from the top Real Sociedad leaders at the top of the table.
Madrid will face Deportivo Alavés and Sevilla before continuing their campaign in the Champions League.
Sitting just one point behind Group B leader Borussia Monchengladbach, Madrid will look to beat Shakhtar Donetsk before watching the group stage against Gladbach.
Madrid will try to continue their European momentum when they return to their derby with Atlético de Madrid.
If Ramos, Varane and Militao are not available for Zidane, Madrid’s defensive responsibility could fall to Nacho Fernández, who has just returned from injury.
Source: m.allfootballapp.com
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