Real Madrid Faces Olympiacos Challenge Without Key Players
Real Madrid will travel to face Olympiacos without the services of Thibaut Courtois and Dean Huijsen. The absence of Huijsen leaves the team with only one fit center-back for this crucial Champions League match.
Coach Xabi Alonso and his squad are under significant pressure following a stretch of three games without a victory, which includes draws against Elche and Rayo Vallecano, in addition to a loss to Liverpool earlier this month.
With Éder Militão sidelined due to a groin injury and Antonio Rüdiger still recovering, the early withdrawal of Huijsen from training on Tuesday has left Alonso with only Raúl Asencio available as a center-back.
Courtois, a standout performer for Madrid this season, is currently dealing with gastroenteritis, as reported by the club on Tuesday.
Additionally, Dani Carvajal and Franco Mastantuono are both unavailable due to injuries, though Aurélien Tchouaméni has made a comeback to the squad for the Olympiacos showdown after a three-week absence.
Despite their recent struggles, Madrid remains at the top of LaLiga and has accumulated nine points from their four Champions League fixtures. However, their defeat at Anfield on November 4 has triggered a slump in form, raising questions about Alonso’s lineup, tactics, and his rapport with players.
After the 2-2 draw against Elche on Sunday, Alonso stated that his relationship with the squad is “improving” due to increased time spent together, emphasizing the need for the team to “respond to adversity,” starting with the upcoming match against Olympiacos.
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