Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti will rest his Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo for Saturday's La Liga clash against Real Sociedad, the Italian confirmed on Friday.
The double Ballon d'Or winner has been struggling with a knee injury and fatigue in recent weeks, although that didn't stop the 29-year-old equalling the Champions League record for goals in one season last Wednesday.
The former Manchester United striker picked up his 14th goal in this season's competition during the 3-0 quarter-final first-leg win over Borussia Dortmund in midweek.
"Tomorrow (Saturday), we will rest Cristiano," explained Ancelotti.
"He's a bit tired and we don't want to take a risk. We prefer to leave him at home and have him work on his training so he's ready for Tuesday night," added the Italian in reference to the second leg against Dortmund.
"We have spoken to him and decided together that it was for the best that he rested. Tuesday, he will be fresher and can better recuperate after a string of matches."
Real come into the weekend in third spot, three points behind leaders Atletico Madrid with Barcelona two points above Ancelotti's side.
Source: AFP
