The French striker is out with a knee injury ahead of the crucial league game.
Carlo Ancelotti has revealed Karim Benzema might return to Real Madrid’s squad in time for their derby against Atletico Madrid.
Benzema limped off the pitch with a knee injury in Real Madrid’s 3-0 win over Celtic on Tuesday.
Despite media’s initial speculation, further tests have indicated Benzema might complete his recovery before the upcoming Madrid derby.
“We will not force Benzema,” Ancelotti said. “He will certainly not play against Leipzig, but then we will see for the derby.
“If he can’t play then [against Atletico], he won’t go to France [for the international break].”
Eden Hazard replaced Benzema after his substitution against Celtic, scoring and providing an assist for the Blancos.
The Belgian star will most likely continue his role in Real Madrid’s attacking line when they face RB Leipzig in the Champions League next Wednesday.
“Hazard did well coming on against Celtic.” Ancelotti added. “I’m going to put him in again on Sunday. Hopefully he can repeat a great game.
“I don’t expect [Hazard] to play like Benzema, but I want him to play well and to connect with the other forwards.
“We don’t have Karim and because he is the best striker in the world, there is no substitute for him on the market.
“But he can be replaced with other players with different characteristics.”
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