Speaking at a press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Primera Division game against Sporting Gijon, the Portuguese claimed Ronaldo, Benzema and Marcelo would not be available until the 9 April encounter with Athletic Bilbao.
He said: “Cristiano, Marcelo and Benzema can only play in Bilbao.”
Ronaldo has been struggling with a hamstring injury while fellow forward Benzema picked up a slight thigh strain on France duty and full-back Marcelo suffered a blow to the ribs while training with Brazil.
On a brighter note for Real, Gonzalo Higuain could make an earlier-than-expected return following back surgery.
The Argentina striker has been included in the squad for tomorrow’s game, and Mourinho said: “His recovery is a positive surprise because we thought he may miss up to the final 15 games of the season and having him is important.”
Excerpt from:
Mourinho Rules Out Ronaldo, Benzema Out Of Champions League Clash