Real Madrid will be without the services of Raphael Varane who has reportedly suffered a soleus calf muscle problem while travelling with French international team. Reports also reveal that Toni Kroos suffered an injury scare during a training session with no official word out on his injury.
With Varane unavailable for selection against Barcelona, Real Madrid is likely to pair Sergio Ramos with Pepe at the heart of the defence. The captain returned from the Spanish national team due to a back injury but is reportedly fit to lead the team out at Camp Nou.
As reported by AS, the manager spoke about Varane and revealed that the club is currently unaware of the extent of his injury.
“It’s a problem which we have no control over. He played the second half [with France] with a few twinges and we still don’t know exactly what he’s got but he can’t be with us for tomorrow’s game.”
Marcelo is expected to take resume his position on the left flank while it remains to be seen if Danilo gets the nod ahead of Dani Carvajal in the starting line-up. The Brazilian could start ahead of his Spanish counterpart in a bid to contain Neymar’s threat on the left flank. Meanwhile Marcelo will have to curb his attacking instincts in order to keep a close eye on Lionel Messi.
Toni Kroos Remains Doubtful
As reported by Marca, Toni Kroos had to withdraw from training after he collided with Jese Rodriguez. While the report refused to shed more light on the matter, AS revealed that the German international returned to training without any ‘significant side-effects’.
Casemiro is expected to start the fixture ahead of James Rodriguez and Isco who have been consistently unimpressive under the French manager. However, one of them could replace Toni Kroos in the lineup should he be declared unfit for the clash.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema are fit to lead the team’s attack at Camp Nou. Both Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema only recently returned from injury and will be keen on making a strong impression against Real Madrid’s arch rivals.
