Real Madrid will be without midfielder Dani Ceballos for up to two months due to the injury he sustained at Real Sociedad last night.
Ceballos limped off late on in San Sebastián following a heavy challenge from the home side’s Take Kubo in the Copa del Rey semi-final, first leg that the visitors won 1-0 thanks to a goal from Brazil star Endrick.
It appeared initially to be an impact injury but tests this morning have confirmed the Spain international has damaged a hamstring muscle.
Ceballos medical report.
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A club statement read: “Following tests carried out today on Dani Ceballos by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with an injury to the semimembranosus muscle affecting the tendon in his left hamstring. His recovery will be assessed.”
Out until the end of April
Reports in Spain suggest Ceballos will not return until the end of April.
It’s another blow for Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti, whose squad has struggled with injuries all season, particularly in defensive areas.
The issues with the back four have meant midfielders Fede Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni have had to take up defensive roles, allowing Ceballos to appear regularly in midfield.
Ceballos could miss at least 10 Real Madrid games
But the former Arsenal man will now miss both legs of the upcoming Champions League clash with city rivals Atletico as well as crunch league games against his former club Real Betis, Rayo Vallecano, Villarreal, Leganes, Valencia, Alves, Athletic Bilbao and Getafe.
Ancelotti still has plenty of options and it seems likely either veteran Luka Modric or Turkey international Arda Guler will get more opportunities in the coming weeks.