Key Players Out and In Doubt for Real Madrid Ahead of the Madrid Derby Against Atletico Madrid
Real Madrid are gearing up to take on Atletico Madrid in the highly anticipated Madrid derby on Saturday night. The Blancos will be hoping to make it six straight wins in all competitions, following their 2-0 victory over Osasuna in La Liga last weekend and a dominant 5-2 victory over Liverpool in the first leg of their last-16 Champions League affair on Tuesday.
However, Real Madrid’s chances could be hampered by a number of injury concerns, with several key players set to miss the derby clash. The most notable absences are David Alaba and Rodrygo, both of whom were forced off during the Liverpool match with hamstring and glute injuries respectively. While there is still a possibility that both players could return for the derby, their status remains uncertain.
Ferland Mendy is also out due to a thigh problem he picked up in the Copa del Rey last month, leaving Carlo Ancelotti with limited defensive options. Aurelien Tchouameni is a minor doubt due to an illness that kept him out of the Liverpool match, but he could recover in time for the derby. Finally, Mariano Diaz is another major doubt due to a muscular problem.
Despite the injury concerns, Real Madrid will still be confident heading into the derby. They will be looking to take advantage of Atletico’s shaky form, with Diego Simeone’s side winning just one of their last four matches in all competitions. The Blancos are currently eight points behind league leaders Barcelona, but a win against Atletico could close that gap and keep their title hopes alive.
Real Madrid have a strong history in the Madrid derby, having won 110 of their 234 meetings with Atletico. The Blancos have also scored more goals than their rivals in the fixture, netting 444 times compared to Atletico’s 368.
As the Madrid derby draws closer, Real Madrid fans will be hoping that their team can continue their winning streak and secure a vital victory in the race for the La Liga title.
