Varane Ruled Out as Real Madrid Face Crucial Clash at Valladolid
Real Madrid face a key fixture in their pursuit of the La Liga title as they travel to Valladolid on Wednesday for a rescheduled Matchday 34 encounter — but they will do so without several first-team regulars, including French defender Raphaël Varane.
Originally named in Carlo Ancelotti’s matchday squad, Varane has been forced to withdraw due to a foot issue. According to a statement released by the club, the centre-back suffered discomfort in his right foot and will not be available for selection.
The timing of the injury is a blow for Madrid, who are under pressure to secure all three points in order to keep their title hopes alive. A victory at the Estadio José Zorrilla would move the Merengues to within two points of current leaders Atlético Madrid, with only two matches remaining in the league campaign.
Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has already been stretched by injuries, with both Gareth Bale and Dani Carvajal also ruled out of the match. The Italian coach confirmed the pair’s absence during his press conference on Tuesday, compounding Madrid’s selection concerns ahead of what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
Despite the setbacks, Real Madrid will approach the game with a sense of urgency and determination. Anything less than a win could prove fatal to their title ambitions, with city rivals Atlético holding the advantage as the season nears its conclusion.
“We know what’s at stake,” said Ancelotti. “We have to give everything, regardless of who is available. The players are motivated, and we are going to fight until the very end.”
Standing in Madrid’s way are a Valladolid side battling for survival at the other end of the table. Currently embroiled in a relegation fight, the hosts will be equally desperate for points. Their home ground, the Estadio José Zorrilla, is expected to provide a charged atmosphere as fans rally behind their team in what could be a decisive moment in their season.
Real Madrid will likely turn to Éder Militão and Nacho Fernández to anchor the defence in Varane’s absence, while Ancelotti may need to rotate his attacking options in light of Bale’s unavailability. The club will also be hoping for inspiration from its experienced midfield core, led by Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos.
As the league campaign reaches its final stretch, every point becomes crucial. While Atlético Madrid maintain control at the top, Real Madrid know that pressure can play its part — and a win in Valladolid could set the stage for a dramatic finale.
Kick-off is scheduled for 22:00 local time, with fans across Spain and beyond set to tune in for what promises to be an intense and unpredictable encounter.
