Real Madrid are struggling from a series of key injuries ahead of their La Liga clash against Levante as Sergio Ramos, Luka Modric and Karim Benzema join the likes of Carvajal, James Rodriguez and Pepe on the sidelines. However, manager Rafael Benitez is confident of managing this crisis as he vows to continue their good spell of form.
Real Madrid have suffered a major blow as striker Karim Benzema is set to be out of action for at least three weeks with a thigh injury he picked up in France’s 4-0 win over Armenia. Meanwhile, Luka Modric suffered an adductor injury with the Croatian national team and is expected to be out for 2-3 weeks.
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Benitez blames the injuries on international duty
As reported by the club website, Benitez spoke about the injuries suffered by his players, claiming that it was beyond his control as most of the injuries were suffered due to the players’ commitment to their respective national teams. The manager also said that ‘top clubs’ like Real Madrid suffer more as they have more players travelling with their national teams during the international break.
“57% of our players’ muscle injuries occur when they’re with their national teams and there’s very little we can do about that. There’s no way of controlling injuries sustained from knocks either. For the top sides the risk of injury is greater because there are more players and more chances of injuries being picked up.”
With Sergio Ramos, Pepe and Dani Carvajal out of the squad, Real Madrid have their back against the wall as they prepare for a series of important clashes. Karim Benzema’s injury further compounds the situation as Real Madrid could be made to pay the price for not investing in a new striker earlier this summer.
Though Real Madrid are yet to suffer a defeat this season, back to back draws against Malaga and Atletico Madrid has put the spotlight on the new manager. With Real Madrid due to face PSG twice in the space of two weeks in the Champions League and the El Clasico looming large on the horizon, Benitez will be aware that there is no room for error at the Spanish capital.