Zidane received good news last Saturday. The Conmebol decided to suspend the double date of Qualifiers for the Qatar 2022 World Cup that was going to be held this March. The refusal of the clubs to lend to their players taking into account the problems with the coronavirus that there was the last window and the 10-day quarantine that they should keep upon arrival has forced the highest body of South American football to postpone the two matches that the selections had to contest.
The coach, therefore, will see how two fundamental players remain in Madrid training with the rest of those not summoned by their respective countries. Is about Casemiro Y Valverde, fixed on Brazil Y Uruguay respectively, who need a break after an exhausting season, especially the first one.
Casemiro accumulates this season 2,626 minutes with the white shirt, being one of the footballers most used by Zidane. He has only missed four games this season, and of the 31 he has played, he has completed 90 minutes in 27.
It will save 24,399 kilometers of travel, plus two very tough games. The first, before Colombia in Barranquilla, one of the most intense teams on the continent. The second, the classic before Argentina that was going to be played in Recife. They also free themselves from commitment Vinicius, Rodrygo Y MilitaoAlthough they are not yet fixed on Tite's lists, the coach has counted on them for some concentrations.
On the part of Valverde, this break will be very positive to avoid the FIFA virus, taking into account that he has already suffered two injuries this season. In his case, the journey was even longer: 22,096 kilometers. First, Uruguay had to play a match in Argentina against the Albiceleste. A few days later, he had to return to Montevideo to entertain Bolivia.
Few Europeans with their national teams
The next FIFA date may be even more beneficial for Madrid since, in addition to the South Americans, they will not have too many casualties among the Europeans. At the moment, there are six footballers who are going to be called up with total security: Courtois, Lunin, Varane, Kroos, Modric Y Asensio. You have to see how they evolve Bouquets Y Hazard of their injuries, also fixed with Spain Y Belgium respectively. There are other cases that are in doubt, such as Nacho, Luke Vazquez or Mendy, who have not settled on their selections but could have a chance in the next call. Whatever happens, Zidane will not lose 13 or 14 players, as has happened on other occasions, thus minimizing the risk of the dreaded FIFA Virus.
This situation is of added importance if we take into account Madrid's tough schedule after the break. First you would have to play the Eibar, but only a few days later, if the qualification against Atalanta is achieved, the first leg of the Champions quarterfinals (April 6 or 7). The following weekend, Madrid will receive a visit from FC Barcelona. The rally will end the return of the quarters on April 13 or 14.
