A key Real Madrid star faces a major setback, threatening the team’s preparations for the high-stakes El Clasico against Barcelona.
Both Real Madrid and Barcelona are grappling with significant injury concerns that could shape the outcome of this high-stakes encounter at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Barcelona’s injury list already includes key players like Gavi and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, with goalkeeper Joan Garcia’s participation still in doubt.
Real Madrid, fresh off its first defeat of the campaign, is also facing a depleted squad, with multiple absences threatening its preparations.
The latest setback for the reigning champions could prove particularly costly, as a vital defensive figure is now likely to miss the clash.
The player in question is Real Madrid’s captain and first-choice right-back, Dani Carvajal, who has sustained a soleus muscle injury in his right leg, as confirmed by the club’s official statement.
According to journalist Arancha Rodriguez, the Spanish international is expected to be sidelined for approximately four weeks, making his participation in the El Clasico highly unlikely.
While Real Madrid players have occasionally returned ahead of schedule, Carvajal’s absence would leave a significant gap in Xabi Alonso’s backline, especially with Trent Alexander-Arnold, the club’s other senior right-back, already ruled out until November due to an earlier injury.
This double blow at right-back poses a tactical dilemma for Alonso, as Real Madrid may lack a recognized senior option for the position against Barcelona.
Antonio Rudiger and Ferland Mendy are also either unavailable or doubtful, further straining the squad’s defensive resources.
For Barcelona, this presents an opportunity to exploit Real Madrid’s weakened flank, particularly with their attacking threats, such as Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, who could target vulnerabilities in the makeshift defense.
While Barcelona’s Hansi Flick works to manage his own absentees, Carvajal’s likely absence could tilt the balance slightly in the Catalans’ favor.
As the countdown to October 26 continues, Real Madrid will hope for a swift recovery, but the odds are stacked against their captain featuring in this blockbuster showdown.
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