Real Madrid must play without their French star in the upcoming game.
Real Madrid will face Barcelona in a crunch El Clasico on Sunday. The Blancos are looking to continue their march toward the league title as they sit 15 points above their arch-rivals.
One of the main reasons behind Blancos’ successful run has been Karim Benzema, who has enjoyed incredible form this season. However, the French striker will not be able to play for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the upcoming showdown.
Speaking in a press conference, Ancelotti said: “Both [Benzema] and Mendy can’t play and won’t go to France either. They stay in Madrid.
“He hasn’t trained with the group. He still has some discomfort.”
He added: “Karim is a very important part, because he finishes all the work, but without him, you have to keep that work and look for different solutions.
“It is already decided who is going to play [in his place]. But I’m not going to tell you.”
Benzema scored twice in Real Madrid’s 3-0 win over Mallorca last week. However, he limped off the pitch in the final stages of the game after suffering a calf injury.
Ancelotti’s side are still the bookmakers’ favourites to win the home game. However, Benzema’s absence might limit their ability to threaten Barca’s backline on Sunday.
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