Real Madrid have been hit by another injury setback ahead of their upcoming Champions League match against Liverpool this week. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has already been grappling with a series of injuries this season, with defenders Daniel Carvajal and Eder Militao both sidelined with ACL injuries in recent weeks. David Alaba is still recovering from the same injury he sustained last November, while Lucas Vazquez, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Rodrygo are also currently unavailable.
Now, Vinicius Junior has joined the list of absentees, as the club confirmed he has suffered a left hamstring injury and will miss the trip to Anfield. The official statement from Real Madrid reads: “Following tests conducted today by our medical staff, Vini Jr has been diagnosed with an injury to the biceps femoris in his left leg. His recovery will be monitored.”
The reigning Champions League holders have had a disappointing start to this season’s competition, having lost two of their first four group-stage matches. Following a 3-1 defeat to AC Milan in their last game, Ancelotti’s side now sit in 18th place and face the prospect of only qualifying for the play-off round unless their form improves. In contrast, Liverpool are top of the group with a perfect record, winning all four of their matches, scoring 10 goals and conceding just one.
Marca reports that Real Madrid is likely to pair Kylian Mbappé with one of Brahim Diaz, Arda Guler, or Endrick in attack, with Rodrygo also expected to miss the game, though his absence has yet to be officially confirmed. Diaz, recently recovered from injury, impressed during international duty with Morocco, scoring five goals in two matches. Guler, who started on the right wing in Real’s 3-0 victory over Leganes on Sunday, may be the most likely option to partner Mbappé in attack.