Real Madrid's €100m attacker Eden Hazard is set to miss his side's crunch match with La Liga leaders Barcelona later this month after being diagnosed with a fractured ankle.
The Belgian picked up the injury in last week's 2-2 Champions League draw at home to Paris St Germain following a clash with international team-mate Thomas Meunier, although the club initially said he had suffered bruising.
A statement from Real on Thursday said that following further tests Hazard had been diagnosed "with an incomplete external microfracture" but did not say how long he would be out, adding "his recovery will continue to be assessed".
Spanish newspaper Marca said Hazard was seen using crutches at Real's team dinner on Wednesday and no return date had been set, although he is not expected to feature again this year.
Real also said on Thursday that defender Marcelo has sustained a calf injury, with Marca reporting he is also in danger of missing El Clasico at the Nou Camp on 18 December, which has been rescheduled over political unrest in Barcelona.
Real are unbeaten in eight games in all competitions and are second in the table on 31 points, level with Barca, who are top on goal difference.
