Ancelotti: Benzema and Mendy will not play El Clasico

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti announced the absence of Real Madrid players from the El Clasico match against Barcelona, scheduled for Sunday in the 29th round of the Spanish League, at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"Benzema and Mendy will not play with us tomorrow, and the two players will remain in Madrid, and they will not join the France national team," Ancelotti said, during the press conference presented to the Clasico.

He added, "We will never risk Benzema. He feels some pain, and although it is a minor injury, it does not allow him to train and, of course, participate in matches."

Real Madrid is seeking to beat Barca in order to further enhance its chances of winning the Spanish League title, which it currently leads with 66 points.

On the other hand, the recently revolted Barcelona is looking to confirm its awakening, by achieving victory over its traditional rival, and advancing another step in the standings, in which it occupies third place with 51 points, with a game less than Merengue.