As Barcelona gear up for what appears to be a title-affirming El Clasico on May 11, their arch-rivals Real Madrid find themselves in a growing defensive crisis that might swing the scale firmly in the Catalan club’s favor.
The upcoming clash at Camp Nou takes on even more weight in light of Barcelona’s recent wins in this fixture, beating Real Madrid every time they have faced this season and winning on three separate occasions.
The picture of Real Madrid’s defensive situation has now become obvious, with three players ruled out of the Clasico for a combination of injury and suspension.
First-choice center-back Antonio Rüdiger will serve a six-match ban after receiving a red card, and his questionable veteran actions after the Copa del Rey final will be serving from now until the end of La Liga – essentially knocking him out of playing again this term, according to Metrouk.
The German’s absence leaves a large void in Madrid’s defense, and without his usual partners available.
David Alaba’s nightmare season has only gotten worse as the Austrian will need another surgery, therefore ending his season.
The Austrian defender has had a tough time with fitness all season, and now we know that he isn’t playing again this season.
Ferland Mendy’s return to the treatment table with a thigh injury – only weeks after he had recovered from a knee injury, leaves Ancelotti without the best option at left-back.
These absences could not be at a worse time, with Barcelona’s attacking trio of Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Yamal getting into form at the end of the season.
With the Clasico approaching, the absence of these three defensive pillars may mean the difference between plenty of champagne celebrations in Catalonia and a nervous title run-in.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
