Real Madrid confirm Pepe broke two ribs in draw with Atletico
The Portuguese defender clashed with team-mate Toni Kroos
He's out of Wednesday's game in Munich and a Clasico doubt
Bad news for Real Madrid ahead of their Chapions League game against Bayern Munich. Tests have confirmed that Pepe broke two ribs in the draw with Atletico Madrid on Saturday.
It's also unlikely he will be available for the Clasico against Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu on Apr. 23.
"Following the tests carried out on Pepe at the Sanitas la Moraleja University Hospital, the player has been diagnosed with fractures to his 7th and 8th left ribs," a Madrid statement read. "His recovery will continue to be assessed."
Pepe, who scored his side's goal in the 1-1 draw against Atletico, received the injury following a clash with his team-mate Toni Kroos. After trying to play on, he had to be replaced by Nacho Fernandez.
Now, Zinedine Zidane has a genuine problem. With Raphael Varane also injured and out of the Bayern and Barça games, Sergio Ramos and Nacho are his only fit central defenders. In addition, the latter is one booking away from a one-game ban.
