Karim Benzema will be missing Real Madrid’s trip to Villarreal.
But Carlo Ancelotti is optimistic Benzema will play against Paris Saint-Germain.
Carlo Ancelotti said “everyone’s feelings are positive” regarding Karim Benzema’s availability for Real Madrid’s Champions League last-16 tie against Paris Saint-Germain next week.
Benzema has missed Madrid’s last two games after picking up a muscle injury against Elche.
However, at a media conference ahead of that game, Ancelotti indicated the 34-year-old would not play against Villarreal.
This season, Benz has 24 goals in 28 games in all competitions, and he could be available for Tuesday’s match at the Parc des Princes.
“We have good feelings. I have good feelings,” Ancelotti said.
“We will see if he will train on Sunday or Monday with the team. Everyone is optimistic, but I will decide on Sunday or Monday.
“The most important thing is the player’s health. If there is a risk, we are not going to take it. We have to evaluate, but if he plays on Tuesday, it is because there is no risk.”
Ancelotti thinks that Neymar will be available for the match, adding:
“I hope Benzema and Neymar can be there, the best players. If the best is there, we’ll have the most entertaining game possible.”
The former PSG manager also brought up Gareth Bale. After returning from a loan move from Tottenham.
The Wales international has played just three times this season and has not featured since playing in a 1-0 win at Real Betis in August.
“We have an excellent working relationship,” Ancelotti explained.
“He’s training hard. He is faithful to the cause. He has not been playing of late, but seeing him in training.
“I can confirm he is ready to play, and I know that he will produce the goods when he gets that opportunity.
“You will be asking me now, ‘why hasn’t he played?’ Looking back, he’s had some trouble to match fit after having picked up an injury thoroughly.
“But these last 15 days or so, the intensity has increased, and I’m sure he’s ready to play. It is my call to decide when.”
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