Madrid's Rodriguez doubtful for Club World Cup

MADRID (AP) — Real Madrid said on Monday that medical tests have confirmed Colombia midfielder James Rodriguez has injured a muscle in his right leg, putting him in doubt for the Club World Cup.

Madrid said in a statement that Rodriguez "has been diagnosed with a grade 1 muscle injury" in his right calf.

The European champions did not indicate how long they expect Rodriguez to be out, but coach Carlo Ancelotti said he hoped he could have his player back in time for a possible final of the Club World Cup on Dec. 20.

"Tests showed he has a small injury," said Ancelotti. "We don't have much time left before the final, but there is a small possibility that he could play the game on the 20th."

The 23-year-old Rodriguez hurt his leg during Saturday's win over Celta Vigo.

Madrid plays Ludogorets in the Champions League on Tuesday and Almeria in the Spanish league on Friday before traveling to Morocco for its first match at the Club World Cup on Dec. 16.

Rodriguez, who signed with Madrid this summer after his superb World Cup, has appeared in all 24 games Madrid has played across all competitions, scoring nine goals.