Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that Gareth Bale will not be available for Real Madrid’s match with Athletic Bilbao tomorrow.
Los Blancos go to San Mames on Sunday, looking for the three points that could take them to the top of the table, should results go their way.
But they will have to do so without the Wales international, who is suffering a slight knock.
“Bale isn't available for tomorrow but he might be fit for Wednesday's game,” he told a Press conference. “I have two players to replace Bale – Jesé and Di María. I will decide tomorrow.
“I'm not worried about Bale. He is not injured and he felt good this morning.
“We have to do our best tomorrow. It will be a tough match but we will win if we give it our all. It’ll be tough because Valverde is doing a great job at Athletic.
"It's very important to win and continue the great performances we gave in January. We need to be 100 per cent focused, and we have to play well if we’re going to win.”
The Italian tactician then commented on Fabio Coentrao’s future, Raphael Varane’s fitness and the news that Santiago Bernabeu will undergo a redevelopment,
“Coentrao isn't going anywhere. He played well against Espanyol. Same with Casemiro. He doesn't want to leave Real Madrid.
“Varane is included in the squad list for tomorrow's match. He trained this week and his knee is fine but we need to be careful with him."
“The new stadium will be fantastic. I'd love to make my debut and enjoy it when it's ready.”
Ancelotti concluded by remarking on the death of Luis Aragones.
“Luis Aragonés' death is a loss for football in general, not just in Spain.”
