Real Madrid are set to be without Franco Mastantuono and several key defenders, including captain Dani Carvajal, against Liverpool in Tuesday’s Champions League showdown.
Carvajal, who was sent off in Real Madrid’s first fixture of league phase against Marseille, would have been available for the trip to Anfield after serving his two-match ban in wins over Kairat and Juventus.
However, the Spain international underwent knee surgery last week and will therefore play no part against Liverpool.
A statement via the club’s website read: “Following tests carried out on our captain Dani Carvajal by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with the presence of a loose body in his right knee joint.
“Carvajal will now undergo an arthroscopy.”
Joining Carvajal on the sidelines will be youngster Mastantuono. The Argentine played the full 90 minutes against Valencia at the weekend but has suffered a setback ahead of the Champions League tie.
A statement reads: “Following tests carried out today on our player Franco Mastantuono by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with pubalgia.
“His recovery will be monitored.”
Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are also absent after Los Blancos confirmed their pair “continued with their recovery programs” as the rest of the squad took part in a training session on Sunday.
Xabi Alonso delivered an update on both defenders following his side’s 4-0 win over Valencia on Saturday, maintaining a five-point lead at the top of LaLiga in the process.
“In a season, it's impossible for the same players to always play,” the Spaniard said in his post-match press conference. “We have flexible defenders and we'll soon have Alaba back.
“Rudiger is still a little way off, but he'll be fine for the next block. That gives us competitive and tactical quality to be able to choose what we want, clear concepts, concentration and mental preparation to face any match.”
