Zidane unsure if Ronaldo or Benzema will be ready for Man City

Zinedine Zidane cannot confirm whether Karim Benzema or Cristiano Ronaldo will be ready for the Champions League semi-final second leg against Manchester City on Wednesday, but neither will be available against Real Sociedad on Saturday. 

Ronaldo has not played since going off injured in the win over Villarreal 10 days ago, while Benzema, Madrid admitted on Thursday, is struggling with a hamstring problem. 

“The important thing is that they cover as soon as possible to be able to play on Wednesday, because they won’t be available [on Saturday],” Zidane said in a press conference.  

“Ronaldo is [at the training ground] every day to recover and to be ready for Wednesday. I hope he is. 

“I am worried each time we have a player out. Now, the most important thing is that they recover, though, we can’t risk Cristiano or Karim. They’re injured and the idea is that they return as soon as possible.”

Ronaldo has spent time this week with a doctor who doesn’t work with the club as he tries to get fit for the City game, while Benzema posted an Instagram photo recently with a physiotherapist who no longer works with the club.

Given the controversy which has followed the club’s medical services this season and Doctor Jesus Olmo, it’s provoked plenty of questions. 

However, Zidane didn’t want to say too much: “It’s agreed with the club. 

“We try to do everything well, each person has their role. The worry I have now is the game [against La Real], I won’t get into those things.”

Questioned once again on whether the two forwards, who will be vital to Madrid’s Champions League hopes, will be ready for City, Zidane was unable to provide an answer.  

“I hope there is no risk,” he continued, “but I can’t tell you about their chances today, I hope they are at 100 percent. That’s the only thing in my head, but I can’t say.”