Why Nacho is absent from Real Madrid’s starting line-up to face Valencia | OneFootball

An explanation for the absence of captain Nacho from Real Madrid’s starting line-up to face Valencia on Saturday night has been forthcoming online.

Los Blancos, of course, are primed to return to action in short order.

In the knowledge that an eventual victory would see them open, at least temporarily, a nine-point advantage over the chasing pack atop the La Liga table, Real have made the trip to the Mestalla, for a hotly-anticipated meeting with Valencia.

Ahead of kick-off, in turn, the XI of stars chosen by Carlo Ancelotti to set about clinching precisely that was unveiled a short time ago.

And, as alluded to above, upon Real’s latest line-up making its way online, one particular absence quickly set tongues wagging.

The omission in question? Nacho.

Despite being one of just two fit central defenders at the disposal of boss Ancelotti at present, veteran Nacho has been forced to make do with a spot on the bench at the Mestalla.

In his place, Antonio Rüdiger has been joined in the heart of the visitors’ defence by Aurélien Tchouaméni.

So, what exactly gave rise to Carlo Ancelotti’s surprise shake-up?

As per a report from Carlos Rodríguez of Onda Madrid, Nacho is dealing with a minor muscular problem at present.

He has therefore been afforded a rest so as not to aggravate the issue, with the plan for Real Madrid’s captain to return to a starting role for the club’s Champions League showdown with RB Leipzig.

Conor Laird | GSFN