Zidane explains Marcelo's absence from Real Madrid's squad

Marcelo wasn’t in Zidane’s squad as Real Madrid cruised to a solid victory over Granada to strengthen their title hopes.

Zinedine Zidane has revealed Marcelo’s absence from Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory at Granada was down to an unspecified injury problem.

The build-up to Thursday’s match was marred by reports of an alleged fall-out between Marcelo and Zidane, with the Brazilian having grown frustrated by the manager’s tactical decisions.

(☀️) Marcelo 🇧🇷 and Zidane 🇫🇷 had a disagreement in yesterday's training session due to a tactical issue in defense. The Brazilian is not included in the squad traveling to Granada. [@GoalEspana] #RMAlive pic.twitter.com/KF6YHGPZU1

— RouteOneFootball (@Route1futbol) May 12, 2021

Castilla star Miguel Gutierrez instead started as the left-back position in the absence of Marcelo and Ferland Mendy.

Speaking to reporters after the match, however, Zidane insisted Marcelo’s no-show on Thursday was down to injury and nothing else.

“Marcelo didn’t play because of an injury and we didn’t want to take any risks, as always,” said the Real Madrid boss in a post-match conference.

“The injury is the reason why he didn’t come with us. That’s all.”

Gutierrez impressed on his full La Liga debut by assisting Luka Modric’s opening goal with a wonderful scoop over the Granda defense.

📊 Miguel Gutiérrez vs Granada:

– 93 minutes
– 74 touches
– 84% passing accuracy
– 2 key passes
– 1 assist
– 1 accurate cross
– 2 aerials duels won
– 6 balls retrievals
– 1 interception

First game as a starter with Real Madrid and Miguel did it well! pic.twitter.com/WKNfGWl3Wp

— Real Madrid Fabrica (@FabricaMadrid) May 13, 2021

“Miguel got his chance today because Marcelo and Ferland were unavailable,” Zidane said on the 19-year-old.

“He’s one of our players. Miguel is with us for the time being, he’s performed very well and I’m happy for him and happy for the team.

“We’re going to give our all until the last kick of the season. We’re going to give it everything like we did today and we’ll see what happens.”

Rodygo Goes, Alvaro Odriozola, and Karim Benzema scored the other three goals for Real Madrid in Granada.

The victory has moved Zidane’s side ahead of Barcelona for second place in La Liga and just two points behind table-toppers Atletico Madrid ahead of the final two games of the season.

Los Blancos next take a trip to Athletic Club on Sunday.