Real Madrid are facing a nervous wait over the fitness of Vinicius Junior and Lucas Vazquez after both players were forced off late in their dramatic 4-3 loss to Barcelona on Sunday. The two suffered separate injuries that could keep them sidelined for the remainder of the La Liga season, casting doubt over their involvement in upcoming fixtures and preparations for the summer’s Club World Cup.
Following the match, the club released official medical updates confirming the extent of the damage. Vinicius has sustained a sprained left ankle, while Vazquez picked up an issue affecting the pectineus muscle in his left thigh. These setbacks come at a crucial stage in the campaign, with Madrid still to face Mallorca, Sevilla, and Real Sociedad in their remaining league matches.
Key players likely to miss Mallorca trip
Spanish publication MARCA has reported that Vinicius will not be available for Madrid’s midweek visit to Mallorca. The result of that match could prove decisive in the title race. If the capital club fail to win on the island, Barcelona will secure the league crown even before their clash with Espanyol.
Uncertainty surrounds Vinicius’ chances of returning for the final home fixture against Real Sociedad on May 25. Given that there are no remaining domestic trophies to contest, the club may prioritize the winger’s complete recovery with a view toward the Club World Cup in June. By that time, Carlo Ancelotti is expected to have taken over the Brazil national team, potentially paving the way for Xabi Alonso to step in as manager.
Vazquez recovery timeline more encouraging
While Vazquez is also expected to be sidelined for the Mallorca clash, AS suggests that the full-back could be close to full fitness in time for next weekend’s encounter with Sevilla. The veteran is aiming to be near peak condition for the match, with reports suggesting he could be at “90%”.
His future with Madrid remains uncertain, as his contract is set to expire on July 1 – the same day he turns 34. This date lands during the extended Club World Cup, and while it is not yet clear how involved he will be in the tournament, the club holds the option of a short-term agreement to ensure his availability for the duration of the event.
