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Ancelotti confirms devastating injury blow for Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti, Karim Benzema
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Ahead of a top-of-the-table Group D showdown in the Champions League, Karim Benzema is a major doubt for the Spanish giants.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti does not expect Karim Benzema to be available to face Inter Milan on Tuesday.

Just 17 minutes into the club’s 2-0 win at Real Sociedad, Benzema suffered a suspected left hamstring problem. He tried to continue, but soon fell to the ground. Therefore, Ancelotti replaced the Frenchman with Luka Jovic, who had a hand in both of the goals at San Sebastian.

“Karim had a problem and felt a bit of discomfort and I didn’t want to force things. I decided to bring him off and we’ll see how he’s doing in the coming days,” Ancelotti told the press after the match.

“I don’t think he’ll be available for Tuesday night, but he could well be for Sunday.”

The manager’s verdict makes Benzema a serious doubt for the Champions League showdown with Inter on Tuesday. Real Madrid must avoid defeat at home to win Group D. They currently hold a two-point lead over the second-placed Nerazzurri at the top of the table.

However, based on Ancelotti’s comments, the striker is set for a quick return in next weekend’s derby at home to Atletico Madrid.

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