James Rodríguez questionable for Real Madrid's game against Real Sociedad

James did not train with the squad on Thursday, so he's questionable for Saturday's home match against Real Sociedad with the flu. Considering that Cristiano Ronaldo will also miss the game after being suspended for the straight red-card he saw against Córdoba, James' absence could affect Carlo Ancelotti's starting XI considerably.

The Italian coach might as well need to start Jesé Rodríguez upfront and one midfielder out of Asier Illarramendi, Sami Khedira and Lucas Silva for the midfield trio. Isco Alarcón has recovered from his muscular problems, so his playmaking abilities will surely help Kroos and the rest of the midfield.

Carlo Ancelotti should give an update on James' condition during Friday's press conference. If the Colombian player took Thursday off, it's still likely that he will feature on this match, though Ancelotti could also decide to keep him out in order to save him for Wednesday's demanding home game against Sevilla.