Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s clash against Real Betis, manager Zinedine Zidane confirmed Sergio Ramos’s absence along with Gareth Bale who is expected to be out for 3 weeks due to a calf injury.
Even though Sergio Ramos trained with the entire squad, he will be rested against Real Betis as Zidane ponders over Gareth Bale’s replacement in the starting eleven.
Sergio and I made a joint decision
As reported by Marca, Zidane revealed that his decision to drop Ramos was made after consultation with the player. The Frenchman seems anxious to have his captain free from all injury concerns as the season enters its decisive second phase.
“He won’t be in the squad. Sergio and I made a joint decision. We think that he’ll back in the team next week and this injury will have been long forgotten.”
I like what I see of James
James Rodriguez is reportedly unsettled at Real Madrid following his fall-out with Rafael Benitez. The Colombian was subsequently dropped by Zidane in favour of Isco, as reports linked him with a move away from the Spanish capital.
However, as reported by Marca, Zidane claims that James Rodriguez is ‘relaxed’ and ‘ready to play’ against Real Betis.
“He doesn’t look worried to me. He says he’s relaxed.
“He’s ready to play.
“I like what I see of James here. He’s fully focused on what he’s doing and I don’t believe what is being said about him outside of the club. He looks committed and focused on what he does every day.”
While Zidane refused to reveal his plans with regards to Bale’s replacement, it will not be surprising to see James Rodriguez start the match alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Isco.
