Real Madrid double injury blow as Ancelotti’s squad DECIMATED before El Clasico

Real Madrid face Barcelona in El Clasico on Saturday but will go into their crucial LaLiga match against their greatest rivals without two major players.

It has been confirmed that Rodrgyo Goes will miss the encounter because of an injury problem, which will force head coach Carlo Ancelotti to reshape his starting XI.

Meanwhile, it is claimed that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will also miss the game.

The Athletic’s Mario Cortegana took to X to confirm: “Rodrygo is injured and will not play El Clasico.”

Although Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe have grabbed the headlines this season, Rodrygo has chipped in with three goals and a couple of assists, which works out at a decisive contribution every two games.

Rodrygo is one of six ever-presents for Real Madrid this season, albeit he has come off the bench on four occasions. He does, however, invariably start the key matches when available.

Courtois’ participation is more in the balance, although COPE indicates he will not play.

“Thibaut Courtois has suffered a muscle injury and he’s expected to miss El Clasico,” Fabrizio Romano tweeted.

Real Madrid subsequently released a statement on Courtois’ injury: “Following tests carried out on our player Thibaut Courtois by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an adductor injury in his left leg. His progress will be monitored.”

Los Blancos will have Andrey Lunin ready to take over should the Belgium international fail to make the grade. The Ukraine keeper spent much of last season after first choice as Courtois was seriously injured.

When will Rodrygo be back?

Rodrygo has a hamstring injury in his right leg, Real Madrid’s medical staff have confirmed via Marca.

The exact duration of his time on the sidelines is unknown as yet because the club have been unable to conduct an MRI scan, which typically takes place 48 hours after such an injury because bleeding prevents an exact diagnosis to be made.

Although it is a blow that Rodrygo is missing for Real Madrid ahead of El Clasico, it is seen as a positive that he managed to stop playing before the problem became more serious. He stopped just after feeling the pinch from the muscle.

Carlo Ancelotti confirmed after the game: “It’s a muscle injury. He had a spectacular run when the third goal was scored. It’s a shame, but that’s how it is.”

Ancelotti, who is already with likely starters David Alaba and Dani Carvajal due to long-term issues, will not have his injury problems to seek before Barcelona’s visit.