In a shocking turn of events, Real Madrid has suffered a serious blow as their top midfielder Eduardo Camavinga has been sidelined for the rest of the season after suffering a full rupture of his left adductor tendon.  In addition to being a setback for manager Carlo Ancelotti, this injury also hurts the team’s chances going into important games like the Club World Cup and the Copa del Rey final.

 The injury happened during Madrid’s close La Liga victory against Getafe last Wednesday, 1-0.  Camavinga, who had just replaced Alaba, started to feel uneasy near the finish of the game, which raised questions about his fitness right away.  According to the club’s medical report, there was a full tear, which meant a protracted recuperation period.

In order to neutralize Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal’s threat, Ancelotti had planned for Camavinga to start this Saturday against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, using him as a left-back.  Now, those plans have been thwarted.  In addition, Camavinga will miss the final five La Liga games, in which Madrid is still vying for the championship and fighting closely with their opponents.

Camavinga’s absence from the Club World Cup, where Real Madrid will play tough opponents like Pachuca, Al Hilal, and Red Bull Salzburg, will only make the disappointment worse.  Camavinga has already sustained four injuries this season: a knee injury in August and two muscle problems in December and January.  This most recent setback is without a doubt the worst.

Real Madrid have to reconsider their midfield plan now that Camavinga is out.  Alexis Mac Allister has stated that he is happy at Liverpool and does not currently have any plans to leave, although his desire to play in La Liga may lead to opportunities down the road.  Enzo Fernández of Chelsea, who has put in strong performances, is also reportedly on Madrid’s radar at the same time.  Both players might be appealing choices to strengthen the Madrid midfield during the next transfer window.