Real Madrid is preparing for a very demanding end of the season, with the league at stake and four points behind Barça.
To Rüdiger's suspension, the uncertainty about Jude Bellingham and Lucas Vázquez is now added. Both were sent off in the Copa final due to incidents at the end of the match.
Will Bellingham and Lucas Vázquez Be Able to Play the Clásico?
The question circulating in Valdebebas is clear: Will they be able to compete in the league in the five remaining matches? The clash in Montjuïc is particularly concerning. The champion will be decided there.
The official response from the RFEF clarifies the situation: both Bellingham and Lucas Vázquez will serve their suspension in the Copa del Rey, not in LaLiga. That is, Bellingham and Lucas will be available for the remainder of the league competition.
While awaiting the punishment imposed by the Competition Committee, they will serve their suspension in next year's cup competition.
One good and one bad news for Ancelotti. He regains key players to continue fighting for the league title. Lucas has been the most reliable replacement for Carvajal, while Bellingham remains, despite his physical decline, an undisputed leader in the white midfield.
Madrid Will Play LaLiga in Montjuïc with a Makeshift Defense
The problem worsens with the confirmed absence of Rüdiger, who is expected to receive between 4 and 12 matches. Carletto will have to rebuild his defense with Tchouaméni returning to the center-back position alongside Asencio. That's it, because Militao is still not ready to reappear.
In Valdebebas, there is concern about the wear and tear. The injuries to Camavinga and Alaba have left the defense at a minimum. Now the suspensions further punish a team that aims to secure the double by winning a league that presents itself as challenging and also the Club World Cup.
Ancelotti is already working on an alternative eleven, knowing that every decision is crucial in a stretch where every point is worth a title. Real Madrid will face the Montjuïc clásico with the urgent need to win, but with a makeshift defense.