Real Madrid's forward woes deepen as Rodrygo faces race against time

His status for the Sunday's La Liga clash against Cadiz hangs in the balance.

Real Madrid's injury struggles seem unrelenting, reminiscent of the proverbial downpour when it rains. Rodrygo, a promising winger, is the latest addition to the growing list of sidelined players, sparking worries for Coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Despite completing the full 90 minutes in a contentious encounter against Argentina at the Maracaná, Rodrygo returned to Madrid with more than just memories of the match and the 1-0 loss. Reports from Spanish outlet AS indicate that the 22-year-old, post-game, found himself in discomfort, a physical toll from the clash.

Upon his return to Madrid, Rodrygo, instead of joining his teammates on the pitch at Valdebebas, sought refuge in the gym. The cause: a knock leading to knee swelling. Medical examinations are underway to assess the extent of the injury, with initial optimism that physiotherapy may suffice. Nevertheless, hopes of Rodrygo featuring against Cadiz this Sunday are dim.

For Ancelotti, this injury poses another challenge in a season already fraught with physical setbacks. The absence of players like Vinicius Junior, Eduardo Camavinga, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Aurelien Tchouameni, coupled with uncertainties surrounding Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos, compounds the coach's worries.

The predicament leaves Ancelotti with limited attacking options for the crucial match against Cadiz. With both Brazilian attackers and Arda Güler unavailable, only Brahim and Joselu remain as fit forwards from the first team. Ancelotti faces a pressing issue: whether to delve into the academy for reinforcements.

As Real Madrid brace for pivotal fixtures in La Liga and the Champions League, the fitness of key players hangs in the balance. The injury saga adds complexity to Ancelotti's tactical considerations, underscoring the team's resilience amid a storm of setbacks.