By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Returning to action after the international break, Real Madrid will host depleted archrival FC Barcelona in Movistar Arena on Thursday.
In addition to previewing the derby of Round 27 of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season, Chus Mateo addressed roster adjustments, confirming the departure of Dennis Smith Jr. and rejecting similar rumors about Serge Ibaka.
“There are 14 players here, enough to face the final stretch,” the 56-year-old tactician referred to practice on Wednesday and the bottom end of the continental and domestic campaigns.
“He arrived at a difficult moment for us. He made an effort to get fit after being out for a long time,” he opened up about the decision to part ways with the 27-year-old point guard, “He can not be accused of a lack of professionalism. He decided to take a different path. He is a player no longer here with us.”
The squad now consists of Alberto Abalde, Facundo Campazzo, Gabriel Deck, Andres Feliz, Bruno Fernando, Usman Garuba, Hugo Gonzalez, Sergio Llull, Dzanan Musa, Eli Ndiaye, Xavier Rathan-Mayes, and Walter Tavares, besides 35-year-old Ibaka.
“I see him training with such professionalism, such enthusiasm, and such an attitude that I do not understand the rumors,” Mateo responded to a question about the status of Ibaka, “When Real Madrid loses a Final, certainly some rumors can be spread, perhaps lacking good intentions. What we have to do is be together and fight together.”
Except for Deck dealing with a hamstring injury, the remaining players are available for the next continental El Clasico.
“He is undergoing treatment and practicing individually. I hope he can join team practices soon,” Mateo updated the status of 30-year-old forward, “He is not yet ready but I hope next week he can take part in some portions of team practices and gradually return without limitations.”
Heading to Round 27 of Europe’s top-tier club continental competition, the team based in the Spanish capital is 13-13, sitting one game outside the Play-In Showdown zone and three games away from a direct spot in the 2025 Playoffs.
Photo Credit: EuroleagueBasketball.net