Vinicius, Vazquez Injured; World Cup Doubt for Both

Real Madrid has confirmed injuries to Vinicius Jr. (ankle sprain) and Lucas Vazquez (thigh muscle), likely ruling both out for the rest of the La Liga season and jeopardizing their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup. Vinicius and Vazquez’s recoveries have no set timeline, deepening Madrid’s selection crisis after a 4-3 loss to Barcelona that effectively ended their title hopes. Vazquez had received a short-term contract extension to play in the Club World Cup, but his injury now threatens his future appearances, while Real Madrid is reportedly targeting Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold as a replacement. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is still expected to leave for Brazil after the season, signaling further change for the club.