Real Madrid Star Stretchered Off with Injury That Could Derail Their Season

Real Madrid suffered a significant injury setback during their La Liga clash against Osasuna on Saturday, a blow that could have serious consequences for their season.

The match, held at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, was seen as an opportunity for Madrid to close the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona, who were nine points clear at the top as the weekend began. However, disaster struck early for the hosts. In the 20th minute, winger Rodrygo was forced off the field with an injury, and was replaced by Brahim Diaz.

The situation worsened just ten minutes later when defender Eder Militão went down with what appeared to be a serious injury. Militão, visibly in pain and in tears, had to be stretchered off the pitch and was replaced by Raul Asencio. Initial fears suggest the injury may be to his knee, which could potentially rule him out for an extended period.

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This double injury blow left Real Madrid anxiously awaiting updates on the severity of the players’ conditions, with crucial upcoming fixtures against Leganes and Liverpool on the horizon.

Despite the setbacks, Madrid took control of the match. In the 34th minute, Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior opened the scoring with a superb finish. Jude Bellingham doubled Madrid’s lead in the 42nd minute, chipping the ball over the Osasuna goalkeeper in a brilliant display of technique.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti is already under some pressure following recent heavy defeats, including a 4-0 loss to Barcelona in El Clasico and a 3-1 defeat to AC Milan in the Champions League earlier this week. Although Madrid’s performance against Osasuna was solid, the team’s injuries have left the Italian coach facing an uncertain future.

Ancelotti recently reflected on some of his past mistakes in his managerial career, revealing that after his first year at Madrid, he almost extended his contract but pushed too hard on salary negotiations, leading the club to halt talks. He admitted it was a mistake but noted that it provided him with valuable lessons.

On managing big-name players, Ancelotti said the most important stars are often the easiest to work with. He pointed out that egos can be a source of motivation, as long as players prove themselves on the pitch. He also praised the veteran players from last season—Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Dani Carvajal, and Nacho Fernandez—for their leadership and lack of ego, which contributed to a harmonious dressing room.

Now, with the injuries to Rodrygo and Militão casting a shadow over their immediate future, Ancelotti and Real Madrid will be hoping for a quick recovery to keep their season on track.