Rabat – Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has suffered a hamstring injury just days after being suspended in the Champions League, adding to the club’s growing list of absences.
The Brazilian sustained an injury to his right leg and is expected to be sidelined for around 10 days. Normally, that recovery period would allow him to return in time for the second match against Benfica later this month.
However, UEFA has handed him a two‑match ban following his red card in the 4-2 defeat to the Portuguese side. He will therefore miss both legs of the knockout play‑off round.
Rodrygo explained his frustration on social media, saying he lost his composure when arguing with officials over time‑wasting. He apologized to fans, teammates, and coach Alvaro Arbeloa, stressing that it was his first sending‑off with Madrid and promising to move forward united with the team.
The suspension and injury mean Rodrygo will miss upcoming league matches against Valencia and Real Sociedad, with a possible return penciled in for the Osasuna game on February 21.
Madrid’s crisis
Madrid’s problems extend beyond Rodrygo. Young defender Raul Asencio is also suspended after receiving two yellow cards against Benfica.
Jude Bellingham is out with a hamstring tear, while Vinícius Junior will miss the next league match due to suspension. On the positive side, Trent Alexander‑Arnold, Antonio Rudiger, and Ferland Mendy are expected back within two weeks.
Since taking charge on January 12, Arbeloa has faced a difficult start. Madrid were knocked out of the Copa del Rey by Albacete and lost to Benfica in Europe, though they managed league wins against Levante, Villarreal, and Rayo Vallecano.
Arbeloa admitted after the Benfica defeat that his team failed to rise to the level required, but insisted there is still time to improve and compete.
The combination of suspensions and injuries leaves Madrid short of options as they enter a crucial stage of the season, with Arbeloa needing to rely on squad depth to keep their campaign alive in both La Liga and Europe.
