Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos will be out of action for five weeks, coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Friday.
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Spain international Ramos, 28, suffered a torn hamstring in Wednesday’s 2-1 La Liga win over Sevilla and limped off after just nine minutes before being replaced by Nacho.
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“Sergio’s injury is a serious one. He’ll be out for five weeks,” Ancelotti explained.
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Ramos, who had already been ruled out of Saturday’s derby against Atletico, could also miss both legs of Champions League round of 16 against Schalke, on 18th February and 10th March.
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The centre-back’s absence is a major blow for Real, who already had to do without James Rodriguez (foot), Pepe (rib) or Luka Modric (thigh).
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Against their Madrid rivals, Real are set to start with Raphael Varane, 21, and Nacho, 23, at the heart of the defence.
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“I trust those two players. They are very good players. They are dedicated and willing to play. I am convinced they will do good things on Saturday”, Ancelotti said.
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Real, currently top of the league with 54 points, face Atletico on Saturday for the tenth time in the past year in all competitions.
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