Vazquez to miss UCL clash vs. Man City as Madrid's injury woes deepen

Real Madrid's defensive injury crisis deepened ahead of Tuesday's Champions League visit to face Manchester City as defender Lucas Vazquez was ruled out with a thigh injury.

"He will not be included in the squad for the match in Manchester," said Madrid in a statement on Sunday, with Spanish media reporting he will miss three weeks.

Vazquez joins defenders Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao on the sidelines.

European champions Madrid first face City at the Etihad Stadium before hosting the second leg of their play-off round clash on February 19.

La Liga leaders Los Blancos drew 1-1 with Atletico Madrid in a derby clash on Saturday, to stay a point ahead of their opponents, with Vazquez substituted after 81 minutes.