Real Madrid’s injury situation has worsened after defender Sergio Ramos has been ruled out for around five weeks due to a hamstring injury.

Carlo Ancelotti has seen his squad strength deplete substantially over the last few weeks. A number of players have been unavailable due to suspension and injury.

Even though he is set to welcome key players like Luka Modric back from the sidelines after a long time, the absence of Ramos may prove to be very crucial aspect as the season unfolds. Madrid have two crucial matches during this period with a Madrid Derby against Atletico Madrid and a Champions League tie against Schalke.

The recent wobbles shown by the team can be magnified in the absence of Ramos, who has been more than just a defender. The former Sevilla man has come up with crucial goals when the team needed the most. The 28-year-old recently became one of first defenders to score in three major cup finals during the course of a calendar year. The absence of Ramos may force Ancelotti into using the yen Rafael Varane and Nacho Fernandez more often than not. Madrid have managed 4 consecutive victories in all competitions since the 2-2 draw against Atletico in the Copa del Rey.

“Following tests carried out on Sergio Ramos by the Real Madrid medical service at the Sanitas La Moraleja Hospital, the player has been diagnosed with a torn hamstring in his left leg. His progress will be monitored,” said a statement on the club site.”Ramos’ injury is serious. He will be out for the next five weeks, but I believe in Nacho and Varane.They are good players and have plenty of enthusiasm,” said Carlo Ancelotti in a press conference. After the Madrid derby against Atletico this weekend, it is straight into the Champions League knockout stages for Madrid.