Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that a cervical issue was the reason for Vinicius Junior's absence from the side that took to the field for the first whistle against Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
Vinicius was initially named in the starting XI for the Madrid derby, but he was withdrawn shortly before kickoff, with Brahim Diaz being drafted into the side.
There were widespread rumours surrounding the nature of the problem, with various reports claiming that the attacker was suffering with a neck injury, and Ancelotti has said that was the case.
The 23-year-old was named on the bench for the clash, but he was not used in what proved to be a 1-1 draw, with Marcos Llorente scoring a last-gasp leveller for Atletico after Brahim had opened the scoring.
"He has tried, but he had a contracture in his cervicals. He wasn't comfortable in the warm-up," Ancelotti told reporters after the clash with Diego Simeone's side.
© Reuters
"We had the option of Brahim or Joselu and the entrance of Brahim allowed us not to change the defensive system. Just that. Joselu then came in and did well, as always."
Ancelotti said that the capital giants "deserved to win" on Sunday, with the Italian refusing to criticise his side for conceding a leveller in stoppage time.
"It has been a very good match on our part. We have played well and controlled well, but we have had the bad luck to concede at the last minute. We lacked height and there we had to suffer," he added.
"We deserved to win, but there have been many games that we have won in the last few minutes. We don't have to blame ourselves for anything. We are leaders and we have the opportunity to strike a blow on the table next Saturday.
© Reuters
"Tranquillity because the team is very good. We played very well and that's what gives me the most confidence for the future of the league. We have a strong team.
"We had casualties, but everyone contributed and everyone has committed themselves to the maximum. We are not satisfied because he deserved to win.
"I highlight everyone's commitment, no matter how many minutes they have. Everyone is ready, prepared and contributes. The commitment of the team is very great and when you have a team of quality and commitment it is easier to achieve success."
Antonio Rudiger was unable to shake off a thigh injury to feature in the Madrid derby, but Ancelotti added during his press conference that he was hopeful of having the centre-back available for Saturday's La Liga contest with second-placed Girona.
Key midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni will also be available again following suspension, while Eduardo Camavinga should shake off a knee issue for the top-of-the-table contest, but Eder Militao, David Alaba and Thibaut Courtois will remain on the sidelines through injury.
Matt Law
