As if the squad's troubles weren't enough, Real Madrid now faces yet another significant dilemma.
And it has not happened at an ordinary game or tournament; the troubles might have a direct impact on Real Madrid's destiny in this year's UEFA Champions League campaign, perhaps compromising their progress into the knockout stages.
All year long, Real Madrid has suffered greatly from players missing time due to injuries and bans, which has cost the team a significant amount of points in important tournaments. Poor performances owing to a lack of expertise have prevented Real Madrid from taking a significant lead in the La Liga title race.
And that wasn't enough. Another concern has arisen, and Madrid must proceed with caution. It might very well be a double-edged sword for the squad.
5 Real Madrid players are on the risk of suspension in the second leg vs. Atletico Madrid
Real Madrid will meet city rivals Atletico Madrid tonight at the prized Santiago Bernabeu. The game's physical difficulties and strength requirements cannot be overstated. Diego Simeone's squad will be difficult for the Merengues to surreptitiously defeat.
But even before the first leg begins, five Madrid players might miss the second match.
According to Article 52.03 of the UEFA Champions League regulations, yellow cards and any suspensions for players and managers are always carried over to the next round of the competition. Furthermore, the regulation states that if players or team officials receive three yellow cards, they would be barred from competing in the following match.
Furthermore, clause 52.04 says that these yellow cards would be removed only once the quarter-finals are completed. This means that all yellow cards will collect until before the quarterfinals, and if a player's individual tally reaches three, the player will be suspended for the next game.
Currently, five Madrid players have two yellow cards. The names are Antonio Rudiger, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modric, and Endrick. These players are joined by Carlo Ancelotti from the managerial team.
If any of the aforementioned players receive a yellow card in tonight's game, they will be barred from playing in the second leg, severely endangering Real Madrid's prospects of progressing to the next knockout stage.
It is worth noting that Madrid already lacks solid consistent midfield legs, and losing any of Tchouameni, Camavinga, or Modric may spell disaster for the men in white. It goes without saying that all five, including Ancelotti, must take their steps carefully in order to avoid more problems.