Pepe looks set to miss Real Madrid's game against Malaga on Sunday after the club confirmed he has picked up a muscular injury.

The 32-year-old centre-back missed Madrid training on Friday after sustaining a knock in the 2-1 midweek win at Athletic Bilbao.

And a statement from the Liga leaders read: "Following tests carried out on the player Pepe at the Sanitas La Moraleja University Hospital, he has been diagnosed with a muscular injury caused by a knock to his left leg. His condition will be evaluated."

Pepe's injury causes a further defensive headache for Madrid coach Rafael Benitez.

Captain Sergio Ramos is also out of action due to a shoulder problem, with Raphael Varane likely to partner Nacho Fernandez at centre-back on Sunday.