Edy Tavares out for El Clasico vs. Barcelona / News - Basketnews.com

Edy Tavares is considered doubtful for the upcoming game against FC Barcelona due a respiratory infection.

Credit: REUTERS/Ints Kalnins - Scanpix Credit REUTERS/Ints Kalnins - Scanpix

Real Madrid will face FC Barcelona without their biggest star, Edy Tavares.

Tavares already missed the ACB League game on Friday against BAXI Manresa. Head coach Chus Mateo revealed that Tavares is dealing with a respiratory infection.

"We are very well used to having him with us almost always. Last year, he had some problems in the series against Partizan, he couldn't play in the second game. What it is about is also surviving without him. We have enough high-level players to carry out the games," Mateo said.

"He has a respiratory problem, an infection, he's fine, but I won't be able to count on him tomorrow," the coach revealed. "The point is that when he is not there, you have to manage and do it well. Of course, he is essential, part of the backbone [of the team], but if he does not play, we have to try to give even more. This is a team - if Papa Edy is not there, the rest of us are."

At the moment, Tavares is considered seriously doubtful to appear on Sunday's El Clasico against Barcelona in the WiZink Center.

Real already faced Barca in the ACB Super Cup semifinal on September 16. Back then, Tavares led his team to a 90-80 victory with 13 points (6/7 2PT, 1/2 FT), 11 rebounds, 4 blocks, 1 assist, and 28 EFF.

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