Celtic are yet to win a game in the Champions League this season and their only remaining chance is against the European champions, Real Madrid, at the Santiago Bernabeu. It would not be a stretch to say that this is the biggest challenge that Ange Postecoglou’s side have faced till now. Los Blancos have been handed a major blow for the game though.
Real Madrid have been struggling with injury problems throughout the course of the season, and now, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Aurelien Tchouameni will not be available when they welcome Celtic to the Bernabeu.
Tchouameni joined Real Madrid from AS Monaco in the summer and has been incredible since then, filling the void left behind by Casemiro, who left for Manchester United. In fact, the Frenchman might have a higher ceiling than the Brazilian legend.
So, it goes without saying that Tchouameni’s absence will be a major blow for Real Madrid. As reported by AS, Ancelotti said:
"“Tchouameni will not be available.”"
Real Madrid have suffered a massive blow for their game against Celtic at Santiago Bernabeu
Tchouameni might not be the only miss for Real Madrid against Celtic though. Karim Benzema has been dealing with an injury in recent times as well, and could potentially be another miss. On the other hand, Eden Hazard, who had a great game at Parkhead, is believed to have picked up an issue as well and is not expected to feature against the Hoops.
Despite all the absences, Real Madrid have to be considered as the heavy favourites going into the game.
For Celtic, it is all about pride. Not only are they out of the Champions League, but out of Europe altogether, as they are guaranteed to finish bottom of their group in the competition, no matter what happens on the final matchweek.
That could work in Celtic’s favour as well though and they might play more freely without the pressure of qualification on their shoulders anymore.