BREAKING: Raphael Varane tests positive for COVID-19 and will miss the games against Liverpool and Barcelona

Real Madrid have a tough week ahead. They will play against Liverpool in a two-legged Champions League quarter-final tie with the El Clasico in between. With club captain Sergio Ramos out injured, Varane was given the task of taking extra responsibility to solidify the defence and enhance their chances of coming out of the week with their head held high.

But Real Madrid have been dealt with a huge blow before the crucial week starts tonight. Raphael Varane has tested positive for COVID-19 and he is likely to miss both the matches against Liverpool and the El Clasico at the weekend.

Real Madrid published an official statement: “Real Madrid CF announces that our player Raphaël Varane has given a positive result in the COVID-19 test that has been carried out this morning.”

Real Madrid are already without their ever-present captain Sergio Rams due to injury. Dani Carvajal is also out injured for a long time. Varane was the mainstay in the defence. But as he has also been ruled out due to COVID-19, Zidane will only have Militao and Nacho in the central defence. Mendy, Marcelo, Odriozola and Vasquez are all available which would somewhat put some burden off Zidane’s shoulder in the full-back position.

But the main thing is, there are no first-team centre backs available other than Militao and Nacho. They are pretty good on their days, but against Liverpool and Barcelona, you would need the best of your men. This will certainly be a massive headache for Zidane as Varane’s positive report has come in the worst of times.