Real Madrid central defender Raphael Varane has tested positive for COVID-19 and is set to miss the club’s Uefa Champions League quarter final first leg clash against Liverpool.
The 13 times UCL winners will face the Reds at the Alfredo Di Stefano stadium Tuesday night and Varane’s absence further adds to the absence of injured talisman and captain, Sergio Ramos.
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The World Cup winner who was rested over the weekend in readiness for Liverpool’s UCL visit had his COVID-19 test for the novel coronavirus Tuesday morning as part of updated routine medical checks before the European tie.
This development further leaves Zinedine Zidane’s depleted defence at the mercy of a rejuvenated Liverpool attacking quartet of Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota, Saido Mane and Roberto Firmino.
Real Madrid, who have only two senior central defenders fit announced Varane’s injury in a brief statement.
“Real Madrid C. F. informs that our player Raphael Varane tested positive in the COVID-19 test he underwent this morning,” the club stated.
Varane will likely miss the second leg set for Anfield next Wednesday with the former Lens youngster having to undergo a period of self-isolation.
The Lille-born 27 years old speedy defender has started all eight of Real Madrid’s UCL matches this season.
