Real Madrid’s Injury Struggles Caused by Packed Fixture Schedule

Carlo Ancelotti has attributed Real Madrid’s recent spate of injuries to the team’s demanding schedule this season. The latest player to be affected is forward Brahim Díaz, who sustained an injury during the first half of Madrid’s 2-0 LaLiga victory against Real Sociedad on Saturday.

Díaz was substituted in that match, and the club later announced that he had suffered an abductor muscle injury in his right leg. Reports indicate that he is expected to be sidelined for over two months. Initially, there were concerns that he could miss up to three months due to the severity of the injury, but sources close to the player have expressed optimism for an earlier return.

At a press conference on Monday, prior to Madrid’s Champions League clash with Stuttgart, Ancelotti emphasized the impact of the busy calendar on his squad’s health. The team has already seen several key players, including midfielders Jude Bellingham, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Dani Ceballos, unable to participate in recent games. However, Ancelotti confirmed that Bellingham and Tchouaméni would be available for the upcoming match.

“We’ve looked at what we can do, but it’s out of our hands,” Ancelotti remarked, reflecting on the challenges posed by their hectic schedule. “The problem is a calendar that’s too demanding. Now we have a new competition, the Champions League. We don’t know how it will go, but one fact is clear: we have two extra games to contend with.”

The coach also called for a reduction in the number of matches to ensure more engaging competitions for fans and players alike. His frustration with the current format was evident as he urged the need for changes.

Additionally, Ancelotti provided an update on defender Éder Militão, who missed training on Monday but has been rested and is confirmed fit to face Stuttgart.

The manager also took the opportunity to defend forward Vinícius Júnior, who has faced criticism for a celebration gesture following a penalty during the match against Sociedad. Júnior made a “shushing” gesture towards the crowd, which has drawn scrutiny from various media outlets.

Ancelotti explained that the Brazilian’s reaction was influenced by the abuse he often receives from opposing fans. “It’s a reaction to something ugly,” he stated. “It happens frequently, the insults. Nobody can endure that, not even I could. His gesture is understandable given what he’s facing.”

Defender Dani Carvajal echoed Ancelotti’s sentiments, pointing out the constant vitriol aimed at Júnior, which understandably provokes a response. “We see and hear the insults directed at Vinícius. If you get pricked, you bleed. It’s entirely normal for him to react with certain gestures in response,” Carvajal noted.

As Real Madrid prepares for their upcoming fixtures, Ancelotti’s comments highlight the challenges posed by their demanding schedule and the impact of external factors on player conduct. With more games on the horizon, the management will be keen to ensure the team’s fitness and morale remain intact.