Angel di Maria or Jese Rodriguez will replace the injured Cristiano Ronaldo in Real Madrid’s match against Galatasaray tomorrow, manager Carlo Ancelotti has said.
The 28-year-old Portugal international picked up a thigh injury against Almeria at the weekend and will sit out the match against the Turkish outfit. Some reports have suggested the Ballon d’Or nominee, who has scored 25 goals for his club this season, will be out for three weeks nursing various bumps and knocks, but Ancelotti said he could be back sooner.
Speaking to the press ahead of the match at the Santiago Bernabeu, the Italian said: “Cristiano won’t play tomorrow because he has a small injury. We will need to wait and see if he can play on Saturday. Di Maria or Jese could replace Ronaldo. We have two options and I will decide tomorrow.”
He also revealed French defender Raphael Varane will still be missing from the side having picked up an knock while on international duty. The 20-year-old centre back should be available for selection again in 10-12 days according to the manager.
“Varane needs a break for his knee to recover well. He won’t be available for 10 or 12 days. We won’t risk and play Ronaldo on Saturday (against Real Valladolid) unless he is 100 per cent fit,” he stated.
With Madrid cruising through the Champions League group, Ancelotti may take the opportunity to rest some players, and in particular Xabi Alonso – meaning a chance for Casemiro to impress in midfield. Los Blancos will be without the likes of Fabio Coentrao (thigh), Sami Khedira (knee), and the suspended Luka Modric.
