Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Real Madrid, has pretty much ruled out Frenchman Eduardo Camavinga for the upcoming Copa del Rey final this Saturday against FC Barcelona. Just like David Alaba, the Italian confirmed both players picked up muscle issues during their last match against Getafe, making it very unlikely they’ll feature in El Clásico.

Injury at the worst time

Camavinga was Ancelotti’s top pick to keep tabs on Lamine Yamal in what’s expected to be a crucial battle for the trophy. But the French midfielder pulled up in the 87th minute after a sprint and a rough challenge from Luis Milla. He tried to carry on to avoid leaving his team a man down, but eventually had to head to the locker room. There, the medical staff confirmed it’s a muscle injury.

“We’ll see tomorrow, but Camavinga and Alaba both have muscle problems. It’s going to be tough for them to make it for Saturday,” said Ancelotti during his press conference, clearly concerned with just three days left before the big showdown at La Cartuja. Missing the Frenchman is a major setback for the Italian manager, who saw him as a key piece to neutralize the pace of Barça’s young star.

Left-back problems stacking up

On top of losing Camavinga and Alaba, Ferland Mendy is also still out injured. That leaves Real Madrid short on options at left-back. Both Alaba and Camavinga had been filling in there recently—against Arsenal in the Champions League, and Athletic Club in LaLiga, respectively.

With no regulars available, Fran García is set to start on the left flank against Barcelona. Ancelotti confirmed the decision, and the young full-back now faces one of the biggest challenges of his season: helping Los Blancos go for another title against their fiercest rivals.