Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema controls the ball as it is defended by Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo and Jules Kounde in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final on Thursday, March 2, 2023. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)

MADRID (AP) — Karim Benzema will miss Saturday’s Spanish league game against Espanyol with an ankle injury, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said on Friday, adding that the French striker is expected to be out of action. return to play the following duels against Liverpool and Barcelona.

“(Benzema) received a blow to the ankle, it swelled up,” Ancelotti said. “He started individual training today and will be available on Wednesday.”

Madrid host Liverpool in the second leg of the Round of 16 on Wednesday with a 5-2 lead. The team then visits Barca in the ‘classic’ and this could have an impact on the fight for the league title.

Benzema has been plagued with minor injuries this term after a stellar 2021-22 season in which he led the Meringues to the European Cup and Spanish league titles with 44 goals. For this, he won the Ballon d’Or for the best player.

Benzema, 35, has missed 12 games for his club, as well as the World Cup with France. He played the full 90 minutes in the 0-0 draw against Real Betis on Sunday.

Ancelotti assured that the team miss having their best player in more games.

“It’s inevitable that it hits because it’s too important, especially after last season,” added Ancelotti. “It was important and what we think is that it will be important until the end of the season.”

Rodrygo will replace Benzema in the starting line-up against Espanyol, the coach says.

Madrid are nine points behind Barcelona, ​​who are leaders in the Spanish league. Barcelona visit Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

Ancelotti also hopes injured defender Ferland Mendy will be ready in time to face Liverpool.

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