Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane tests positive for coronavirus

In a major blow to Real Madrid, first-team defender Raphael Varane will miss the Champions League quarterfinal first-leg against Liverpool on Tuesday after testing positive for coronavirus. The defending Spanish champions were already without skipper Sergio Ramos. He was ruled out after picking up an injury during the international duty with Spain. This meant that Varane was set to marshal the backline. However, his unexpected absence will be a major setback to Zinedine Zidane’s side.

Spanish giants Real Madrid released a statement on their official website on Tuesday to confirm the same. “Real Madrid informs that our player Raphael Varane tested positive in the Covid-19 test he underwent this morning,” read the statement by Real.

Official Announcement: Raphaël Varane. #RealMadrid

— Real Madrid C.F. ???? (@realmadriden) April 6, 2021

The World Cup winning defender, Varane, did not play the La Liga match against Eibar last weekend. With Ramos also injured, the 13-times European champions will be without their first-choice centre-back pairing on Tuesday night.

In their absence, Nacho Fernandez could partner Eder Militao in the backline for the first leg. With matches coming thick and fast, it is not sure whether Varane will be available for the El Clasico against Barcelona on Saturday. Then Real travel to Anfield to take on Liverpool next Wednesday.

Raphaël Varane amongst Real Madrid defenders in the #UCL this season:

☉ Most recoveries (44)
☉ Most clearances (24)
☉ Most aerials won (19)
☉ Most interceptions (13)

A huge loss for Los Blancos. pic.twitter.com/UR1nkdLaLr

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) April 6, 2021