Sports Evolve
Carlo Ancelotti has reassured fans that striker Karim Benzema’s injury sustained during a 2-0 victory over Valencia will not keep him out for a long time.
During the match, Benzema helped score both goals in the second half, but was forced to leave the field due to a potential hamstring injury.
As Real Madrid is scheduled to play in the first leg of the Champions League last-16 against Liverpool, fans were worried about the status of the reigning Ballon d’Or holder, but Ancelotti has addressed these concerns and stated that the injury is not serious.
“Benzema is nothing major,” Ancelotti told the media, clearly believing the striker will be back in time to travel to Anfield on February 21.
Unfortunately, Carlo Ancelotti delivered some disappointing news to Real Madrid fans regarding center-back Eder Militao, who suffered a groin injury during a challenge and had to be substituted in the middle of the first half.
“The injury to Militao is more serious. [He] will not be available at the weekend against Mallorca,” Ancelotti confirmed.
After playing against Mallorca, Real Madrid will participate in the Club World Cup in Morocco, where they will enter at the semi-final stage alongside the South American champions, Flamengo.
Both Militao and Benzema are uncertain to play in the tournament due to their injuries, causing potential difficulties for Ancelotti in making lineup decisions.
Additionally, several players in defense, including David Alaba and full-backs Ferland Mendy and Lucas Vazquez, are also injured, limiting Ancelotti’s options for rotation.
With regards to Benzema, Real Madrid’s limited options at forward have been widely recognized. Ancelotti has used Rodrygo in a central role and may do so again if Benzema is unavailable, while Mariano Diaz is available as backup.
