Real Madrid defender Pepe could be facing another spell on the sidelines after suffering a calf injury.
A statement on Madrid’s official website confirmed a “grade-two injury to the inner calf muscle of Pepe’s left leg”.
The 33-year-old has subsequently been ruled out of Wednesday’s Copa del Rey last-16 first leg against Sevilla, prompting more doubt over whether his contract will be extended beyond this summer, given he has already spent time out with a hamstring problem.
He also joins fellow stopper Sergio Ramos on the treatment table, which leaves Raphael Varane and Nacho Fernandez as Los Blancos’ only fit centre-backs for the visit of the Andalusians.