Injury update: Karim Benzema ruled out of Barcelona clash this weekend

In a shocking revelation for Real Madrid fans, Karim Benzema has been ruled out of the El Clasico on the weekend due to injury, reports Sergio Quirante. The Frenchman did not train with the group today, and therefore his presence on Sunday night is too risky to pull off.

After picking up an injury vs Mallorca, there have been several updates on his situation, with reports stating that he could be fit in time for the game. However, after missing training completely yesterday, and only training alone today, he will have to watch the game from the stands.

Benzema has been head and shoulders above most players this season, scoring 22 goals and assisting 11 in the league. His 45 goal contributions across the season are only matched by Robert Lewandowski this season, while Mohamed Salah comes close with 41, while Kylian Mbappe has 40.

Without him, it is likely that Carlo Ancelotti starts with one of Luka Jovic or Gareth Bale as the striker. Marco Asensio has been used there in the past, and could be deployed again with Rodrygo on the right-wing.

Ferland Mendy has been ruled out of the game as well, which puts a host of trouble on Ancelotti’s shoulders, especially during such a crucial part of the season. A stumble here could cost them dearly.