Real Madrid centre-forward Karim Benzema would reportedly have played against Barcelona on Sunday if the contest was key in the race for the La Liga title.
Benzema will not feature in El Clasico due to a calf problem, but the issue is believed to be minor, with the striker expected to be back in training for the capital giants next week.
According to ABC Deportes, if Real Madrid were not in such a commanding position at the top of the table then the France international would have taken to the field on Sunday.
The report claims that Benzema's priority is to rest ahead of the Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea, with the first leg due to take place at Stamford Bridge on April 6.
Real Madrid are currently top of the La Liga table, 10 points clear of second-placed Sevilla, 12 ahead of third-placed Atletico Madrid and 15 clear of fourth-placed Barcelona.
Benzema has been in excellent form for Los Blancos during the 2021-22 campaign, scoring 32 goals and registering 13 assists in 34 appearances in all competitions.
Matt Law
