In the last training session before they head to Barcelona, Real Madrid have been hit by injuries to two crucial players disrupting all of Zidane’s plans. Raphael Varane didn’t participate in the training session as his muscle injury which he suffered while playing for France showed up again. Toni Kroos also hurt himself after a tackle by Jese Rodriguez. The German couldn’t continue training and was examined by the club doctors. The extent of Kroos’ injury is still not known and Zidane must be hoping that the German will be fit in time for the Clasico.
Both Varane and Kroos are crucial players for Real as they don’t have like for like replacements. Kroos especially is key to Real’s midfield and he along with Modric set Real’s tempo and dictate play. Up against Barcelona’s midfield, without Kroos there is really no chance that Real can compete in the center of the park. Isco or James Rodriguez can be called in to play in midfield but they are not really midfielders who can play the role, especially in a clasico. Casemiro was expected to start in a new look lineup but these injuries have thrown a spanner in Zidane’s plans and it remains to be seen what new plans he can devise.
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