Problems with Real Madrid
Ancelotti will not have the services of Alaba or Mendy. Mendy sustained an injury to his left leg’s semimembranous muscle during the cup derby, which is expected to keep him out of action for around two months. He won’t be available for the second leg against Liverpool or the League Clásico but may return for the second leg of the Cup. Alaba is also out with a broken hamstring, which will keep him out for approximately a month, meaning he won’t return until after the break. The situation is different for Rodrygo, who was initially excluded but is now being considered due to his positive progress. He worked with doctors and physiotherapists throughout the weekend to hasten his recovery, and if he continues without discomfort, he will be available.
Problems with Barcelona’s line-up
Xavi faces a more difficult situation as he will be missing Pedri, Dembele, and Lewandowski for the Clásico. Pedri suffered a tear in the rectus femoris of his right thigh in the first leg of the Europa League against United and will be out for two weeks. Dembele is in a similar situation, and both players may return for the last game before the break. Lewandowski sustained an overload in the femoral biceps of his left thigh after playing for 90 minutes in Almeria, and he is expected to be out for about 15 days. Barcelona has been preparing for the game without these players, but the absence of Lewandowski complicates matters. Ansu Fati suffered a blow to his left knee during training and did not travel to Almería as a precaution, but his participation in the Clásico is not in danger.