Since Carlo Ancelotti's return earlier this summer, Real Madrid have gone from strength to strength both domestically and on the continent. The Spanish titans have lost just once in La Liga all season, and following their convincing 2-0 win over cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid last time out, boast a very comfortable eight point lead over the chasing pack.
However, as they prepare to close out 2021 on a high note, they'll have to make do without two of their most experienced players.
Both Marcelo and Luka Modric have reportedly contracted COVID-19, meaning it's possible neither the Brazilian defender nor the Croatian midfielder will be able to feature for Real Madrid in their last two matches. The league leaders are scheduled to face Cadiz this weekend, followed by an away trip to take on Athletic Bilbao next Wednesday before the players are given a rest for the holiday period.
While neither relegation-threatened Cadiz nor struggling Athletic Bilbao should cause Real Madrid any issues (on paper at least), it will still come as a blow for Ancelotti, especially with Modric being in top form lately. The 36-year-old, who broke the Ronaldo-Messi duopolic hold on the Ballon d'Or by winning it in 2018, was one of the standout performers for Los Blancos during their 2-0 win against reigning champs Atletico Madrid last weekend.
