Real Madrid star Luka Modric faces a potential absence for the upcoming Champions League semi-final clash against Manchester City.

Real Madrid could be without veteran midfielder Luka Modric for two crucial upcoming matches, including the Copa del Rey final and the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Manchester City, due to a thigh injury. The 37-year-old Croatian limped off just past the hour mark during Real’s 4-2 defeat to Girona, leaving the club uncertain about his return.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the injury, describing it as “small” but admitting he does not know if Modric will be fit for the cup final. “We are hurt, but these things happen. I hope he recovers,” Ancelotti said.

In Modric’s possible absence, Ancelotti suggested alternatives such as Dani Ceballos, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurelien Tchouameni, but acknowledged that Modric’s experience in high-stakes games makes him “irreplaceable.”

Real Madrid are scheduled to play Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final on May 6, just three days before hosting Manchester City in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final. The club is also set to be without key centre-back Eder Militao due to suspension.

Ancelotti stressed the challenge ahead: “We’ll probably have to replace both of them in the Champions League first leg—Militao, for sure, but hopefully not Modric.” The team now faces a critical period where squad depth and tactical adjustments will be essential to navigate these pivotal fixtures.