Real Madrid News
Real Madrid defender likely to be rested for Mallorca clash after injury scare – report
Real Madrid got their UEFA Champions League title defence off to a flyer with a 3-0 rout over Celtic midweek. After an ordinary first 45 minutes, Los Blancos focussed all their resources to capitalise in the second half.
Despite taking three points home, all was not well at the end of 90 minutes. Carlo Ancelotti’s side lost two key players to injury during the 90 minutes in Glasgow- Karim Benzema and Eder Militao.
According to reports from Miguel Angel Dias, the Brazilian centre-back underwent an ultrasound scan to gauge the extent of his injury on Wednesday. The diagnostic procedure revealed no damage to the hamstrings of his left leg as initially expected.
Later today, he will undergo an MRI scan to accurately assess the condition of his muscle. As it stands, he is expected to be rested for the weekend’s clash against Mallorca.
In his absence, the manager will count on Antonio Rudiger at centre-back alongside David Alaba. The German international has not seen as many minutes as he would have liked so far this season and will look to capitalise on his chance.
In 45 minutes against Celtic, Militao produced five clearances, one interception and blocked one shot. Needless to say, he was vital in ensuring that the hosts did not get a goal despite putting pressure throughout the first half.
It is expected that the Brazilian will be available for next week’s UEFA Champions League clash against RB Leipzig. Even if he doesn’t make it in time for the game against the Germans, Ancelotti will hope to have him fit for the Madrid derby next weekend.
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
