Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed Karim Benzema and Raphael Varane will likely miss Real Madrid’s game against Levante.
The Coach revealed the France pair arrived back from international duty with a fever and are therefore not in consideration for the game against Les Granotes.
“Everyone arrived safely but this morning we found Varane and Benzema have a fever and probably aren’t available,” he said, AS reports.
“The rest of the squad is fine and we can continue our good form.”
With Sergio Ramos also on the sidelines Ancelotti suggested Nacho would partner Pepe in the heart of the defence.
The absence of Benzema could see Cristiano Ronaldo moved to a central attacking role, but Ancelotti added he has other options as well.
“Cristiano’s position won’t change. I’ve only said he has the quality to play as a striker. The idea isn’t to change his position and he’ll be on the left wing,” the Italian continued.
“We only knew about this an hour ago. I haven’t thought about who could play. Maybe Javier Hernandez, or a playmaker. We’ll decide in the coming hours.
“I can’t say if it will be Chicharito. He has adapted well, played some games and done well in them. He’s confirmed why we signed him with his professionalism and quality.”
The Copa Del Rey draw was today made and Madrid and Barcelona are in the same half, which means that if they are to play each other, it will be before the final.
“It’s difficult for everyone in our side of the draw,” Ancelotti noted.
“We have to accept the draw. It will be harder to reach the final than it was last year.”
Ancelotti was asked if he was considering a transition of goalkeepers as Vicente Del Bosque hinted was underway with the national team, between Iker Casillas and David De Gea.
“Iker will play tomorrow. Navas only got back from international duty today,” Ancelotti said.
“The national team is different from Madrid. Here there are different players. We have no desire to make a transition.”
Asked specifically about Levante, Ancelotti said he expects a difficult but ultimately successful game.
“It will be complicated, difficult. Levante, at home, are very brave and strong,” he said.
“We have to be the best Madrid we can be to win tomorrow.”
