Real Madrid News
Real Madrid ace ruled out of El Clasico with hamstring injury
Real Madrid forward Rodrygo will miss the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona due to injury, as confirmed by journalist Mario Cortegana.
The Brazilian winger, who started on the right side during Real Madrid’s match against Borussia Dortmund, was forced to leave the pitch before the end of the game after suffering what seems to be a hamstring injury.
This injury occurred just four days before the crucial El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu, making his absence a significant blow for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.
What happened to Rodrygo?
Rodrygo felt discomfort in his right hamstring during a critical moment in the match, where he successfully retrieved a nearly lost ball, leading to Lucas Vazquez’s goal that completed Real Madrid’s 3-2 comeback against Dortmund.
Unfortunately, this effort came at a cost, and Rodrygo was replaced by Aurelien Tchouameni in the 85th minute after being unable to continue.
After being substituted, Rodrygo was seen with ice wrapped around his leg, a clear indication that the injury could be more serious than initially expected. This has led to concerns over how long he might be sidelined.
It is said that Real Madrid’s medical team plans to conduct further tests to determine the full extent of the injury.
While a preliminary assessment is scheduled for Wednesday, the more detailed MRI scan is set to take place on Thursday, which will provide a clearer understanding of how severe the injury is.
Time for a tactical switch
Rodrygo’s absence presents a challenge for Ancelotti, as the manager now has to rethink his tactical approach for El Clasico.
Without Rodrygo, Real Madrid may shift to a formation with an additional midfielder rather than sticking with a direct replacement in the forward position.
The uncertainty surrounding the starting eleven will undoubtedly be on the minds of both the coaching staff and fans ahead of this high-stakes encounter with Barcelona.
As it stands, Rodrygo’s absence could impact the team’s dynamics in what is always one of the most anticipated matches of the season.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
