Real Madrid Faces Injury Challenges Ahead of Osasuna Clash

PAMPLONA, Spain — Real Madrid, leading the La Liga title race by a slender point, prepares for a crucial matchup against Osasuna on February 15. Amid a difficult schedule and a mounting injury crisis, Los Blancos are vying for three points to maintain their slender lead over crosstown rivals Atletico Madrid.

The ongoing situation is particularly taxing for manager Carlo Ancelotti, as this match comes just days after a thrilling comeback victory against Manchester City in the Champions League. With the second leg of that tie looming, Ancelotti will face tough decisions on player rotations and formations.

Real Madrid is currently grappling with significant defensive injuries. Key players such as Eder Militao are sidelined for the season with an ACL tear, while David Alaba is recovering from a muscle injury. Antonio Rudiger, meanwhile, remains a doubt due to a hamstring issue. These absences have forced young players like Raul Asencio and Aurelien Tchouameni into critical roles on the backline.

“Injuries are part of the game, and we’ll have to adapt,” Ancelotti said during media interactions. “We’ll focus on winning this match first before shifting our attention to the Champions League.”

Osasuna, ranked ninth in La Liga, brings their own set of challenges, recently overcoming a rough patch to navigate their last four matches without defeat. However, they will be without their regular center-back Enzo Boyomo, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation. Jorge Herrando is expected to fill his position alongside Alejandro Catena.

The home side also has concerns over Ante Budimir, who is nursing a knock, leaving his status questionable ahead of kickoff. With the absence of regular starters, Osasuna will be eager to bolster their performance against a wounded but determined Real Madrid squad.

Osasuna’s formation is anticipated to take shape in a 4-2-3-1 setup, with Sergio Herrera in goal and a midfield featuring Moncayola and Torro. Coach Jagoba Arrasate emphasized the importance of this match as they seek to capitalize on their current momentum.

“Real Madrid is a giant, but we’ll fight for every ball,” Arrasate said. “It’s crucial we show our fighting spirit at home.”

As for Real Madrid, their expected lineup includes Thibaut Courtois in goal, supported by a reshuffled defense due to numerous absences. Stars like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr will head up the attack, aided by midfielders Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham.

The match is set to kick off at 10:15 a.m. ET, with viewers able to tune in via various networks and streaming services worldwide, including ESPN Deportes and LaLigaTV.

With the stakes high for both sides, fans can anticipate a fiercely contested encounter as each team looks to bolster their respective positions in La Liga.