The other key loss that Real Madrid would have ahead of the Classic against Barcelona

Bad news for Real Madrid ahead of the Clásico against FC Barcelona on Saturday, October 26. Carlo Ancelotti's team could face another significant absence, adding to the already known absences of Thibaut Courtois, David Alaba, Daniel Carvajal, and Brahim Díaz, with this being an injury to one of their main offensive references.

Real Madrid might have to face Barcelona without Rodrygo Goes, who had to be substituted in the last match where the Merengues defeated Borussia Dortmund 5-2 in the third matchday of the UEFA Champions League. The Osasco native felt a twinge in his right leg after making a demanding play where he recovered a nearly lost ball, leading to the 3-2 goal in favor of the Whites.

Rodrygo's effort in the 3rd goal was amazing. pic.twitter.com/WOdhzTEikE

— Rodrygodepre ▫️ (@rodrygodepre) October 22, 2024

Now, various news sources suggest that Rodrygo is facing a hamstring injury in his right leg. This diagnosis comes after the Real Madrid winger underwent initial examinations on Wednesday to assess the severity of the physical setback he experienced.

If this diagnosis is confirmed, Rodrygo would be out of the match against FC Barcelona, representing a significant loss for the Merengues as they would be deprived of one of their main goal scorers of the season. So far, the former Santos player has scored three goals and provided two assists, placing him just behind Kylian Mbappé (8) and Vinicius Jr. (8) in terms of goals. The forward's absence would pose a challenge for Carlo Ancelotti.

Rodrygo's injury likely to affect Carlo Ancelotti's tactical plan for the Clásico

The Italian coach now faces the dilemma of choosing between two options to replace Rodrygo. He can either change the formation from a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 to a formation closer to 4-3-1-2, with Mbappé and 'Vini Jr.' as offensive references, allowing him to strengthen the midfield with the players available on the bench.

The second alternative involves including another player on the right flank. Among the natural options for this position is Arda Güler, who has had limited involvement in the starting eleven recently. Additionally, one of the usual substitutes for this position (Brahim Díaz) is currently injured. Despite this, it is not ruled out that Carlo Ancelotti may consider a riskier proposal, such as moving Mbappé or Vinicius to the right and placing Endrick as the '9', an idea that comes with additional complexity.