30.08.2014 13:38 h

Ronaldo out of Madrid trip to Sociedad

World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo has not been included in Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti's squad for their trip to Real Sociedad on Sunday due to ongoing injury problems.

The Portuguese was hampered by patellar tendinosis in his left knee towards the end of last season and during a disappointing World Cup.

And he only played one half in each of Real's two Spanish Super Cup matches against Atletico Madrid last week due to a hamstring injury.

"We have prefered to use this week to allow him to recuperate completely and get back to optimal condition," Ancelotti said on Saturday.

"He will not play tomorrow, he is out of the squad."

Ronaldo had already been left out of Portugal coach Paulo Bento's squad for the upcoming European Championship qualifier against Albania on Friday.

Spanish press reported on Saturday, though, that Madrid are hopeful that a three week rest will be enough for Ronaldo to return to action when the European champions face Atletico once more in La Liga on September 13.

Ronaldo's absence means Real will be without three of their most important players from last season for the tricky trip to Anoeta as Angel di Maria and Xabi Alonso also left for Manchester United and Bayern Munich respectively this week.

Ancelotti admitted that Alonso's desire to leave had taken him by surprise, but believes that in the likes of Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Sami Khedira they have the ready made replacements to cope with his absence.

"It was a surprise, but it was very difficult to change his mind.

"He spoke very well with everyone and explained it very well. He needed a new motivation. It was very difficult to not let him leave and that is why we let him go.

"Last season he was very important in us winning titles, but now we have that position well covered.

"He is a very honest guy. Both with the club and himself."