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Real Madrid's chances of qualifying from the Champions League group stage have suffered a major blow
Real Madrid face yet another injury setback as Rodrygo Goes has been ruled out of their crucial Champions League clash against Atalanta.
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The Brazilian forward's absence deals a significant blow to Los Blancos as they aim to secure vital points with qualification from the group stage still uncertain.
Real Madrid scramble as Rodrygo is sidelined
The Brazilian forward picked up a muscular problem during training, forcing him to miss Real Madrid's recent 3-0 LaLiga victory over Girona.
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According to reports from Relevo, the injury will almost certainly keep him out of Tuesday’s Champions League fixture against Atalanta in Bergamo.
While initial evaluations suggest Rodrygo could return for next weekend’s domestic match against Rayo Vallecano, there’s concern that a more severe diagnosis might extend his recovery period until Real Madrid’s game against Sevilla, their last before the winter break.
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Rodrygo’s absence couldn’t come at a worse time for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. With Real Madrid’s Champions League aspirations hanging in the balance, the loss of yet another attacking option raises questions about how Los Blancos will adapt against Atalanta.
Advantage Atalanta and Lookman
Atalanta, inspired by the form of Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, will breathe a sigh of relief at Rodrygo’s absence.
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Lookman has been a consistent threat in Serie A with eight goals and four assists in 12 league games and could be a thorn in Real Madrid’s side if he takes his domestic form to European competition.
The last encounter between the sides saw Real Madrid secure a 2-0 win in the UEFA Super Cup, courtesy of goals from Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde.
This time, however, the stakes are higher, and Atalanta will be eager to take advantage of Real Madrid's vulnerabilities, particularly with one of their top attacking threats missing.
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