Real Madrid fans had expected Carlo Ancelotti to feature Eden Hazard as a direct replacement following Karim Benzema’s injury layoff. However, the Italian manager had different plans for his team.

Benzema was taken off the pitch during the Champions League clash with Celtic last week and was immediately replaced by Eden Hazard. And luckily, the Belgian justified the decision to bring him into the field of play.

He was productive and made creative opportunities that would have led to a goal, although Real Madrid ended the encounter with a 3-0 victory.

Why is Rodrygo replacing Karim Benzema instead of Hazard for the Leipzig clash?

Although Carlo Ancelotti had his plans cut out for the game, he opted for Rodrygo, who had a fantastic day during Real Madrid’s 1-3 La Liga victory over Real Mallorca. The Brazilian scored and provided an assist, while Hazard did not have a great day and was replaced instead.

To count the numbers, Rodrygo would be the best option for Ancelotti as Real Madrid hopes to preserve their hundred per cent run against RB Leipzig at the Santiago Bernabéu.

As Rodrygo starts, Eden Hazard could be introduced as a substitute even as Carlo Ancelotti continues to watch the Belgian return to his best form.