This archive report was first published on 5 December 2019.
Real Madrid's title hopes have taken a hit with Eden Hazard set to miss the crucial match against La Liga leaders Barcelona later this month.
According to a statement from Real on Thursday, Hazard has been diagnosed with an incomplete external microfracture in his right ankle, which he sustained in last week's 2-2 draw against Paris St Germain.
Initially, the club had said that Hazard had suffered bruising, but further tests revealed the more serious injury. The statement added that his recovery will continue to be assessed.
Spanish newspaper Marca reported that Hazard was seen using crutches at Real's team dinner on Wednesday and no return date had been set, although he was not expected to feature again this year.
Meanwhile, Gareth Bale was absent from Thursday's training session and is also set to miss Saturday's La Liga match with Espanyol as well as Wednesday's Champions League game at Club Bruges due to a hamstring strain.
Real have not released any information on Bale's injury, but they did confirm that defender Marcelo has sustained a calf injury, which may also rule him out of the 'Clasico' at the Camp Nou on December 18.
Real are currently unbeaten in eight games in all competitions and are second in La Liga on 31 points, level with Barca who are top on goal difference.
