Real Madrid have suffered a late blow ahead of Saturday's La Liga clash against Girona, with Brazilian forward Rodrygo ruled out of the contest due to an alleged muscular problem.
Los Blancos announced on Saturday that Rodrygo would be unable to take to the field against Girona in Spain's top flight.
"Real Madrid travel to Girona to face the 16th round of the league tonight at Montilivi with the last-minute absences of Rodrygo, Gonzalo Garcia and Chema Andres. In their place, [Daniel] Yanez is included in the squad," said the Spanish and European champions.
The capital giants did not explain Rodrygo's absence, but according to journalist Arancha Rodriguez, the Brazilian has suffered a muscular problem in his left leg.
As a result, the forward seemingly faces a battle to be available for the Champions League contest with Atalanta BC next week, in addition to next weekend's La Liga contest with Rayo Vallecano.
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Real Madrid attacker Rodrygo 'suffers muscular injury'
Rodrygo has once again been a vital player for Los Blancos during the 2024-25 campaign, making 17 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and registering two assists in the process.
Los Blancos are also currently missing David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Vinicius Junior and Eduardo Camavinga, with the Spanish giants struggling with a number of injury problems this season.
However, Alaba is now back in training, with the Austria international set to return to action next month - more than one year after he suffered a severe knee problem.
Vinicius, meanwhile, is in line to return for the key Champions League clash with Atalanta next week.
"It's great news. We're encouraged to see how well Vini Jr. has recovered from his injury. He won't be available tomorrow but he should be ready for our next Champions League game," said head coach Carlo Ancelotti during his press conference ahead of the clash with Girona.
"We're delighted to have Alaba back in training too. He needs all of December to ensure he's fit and ready to play again in January. He'll keep working individually and we'll bring him back into the group gradually. His comeback is set for next year."
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Who will replace Rodrygo in the XI?
Arda Guler is expected to benefit from Rodrygo's absence, with the Turkey international expected to start in a front three alongside Kylian Mbappe and Brahim Diaz against Girona.
Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde and fit-again Aurelien Tchouameni are set to operate in central midfield, while Raul Asencio is in line for another start in the middle of the Real Madrid defence.
Matt Law
