Real Madrid-Napoli: Bale made to wait for squad return, no Danilo

Gareth Bale has not been named in the Real Madrid squad for their Champions League last-16 first leg against Napoli on Wednesday night (20:45 CET).

Napoli opening leg comes too soon for Bale

Bale returned to training on Sunday after recovering from a long-term ankle injury and was said to be pushing to be included on the list for the clash.

However, boss Zinedine Zidane - who in his pre-match press conference had spoken of the need to "take it slowly" with his comeback - has opted not to take any risks.

No Danilo, Asensio, Mariano or Coentrao

Also left out are Marco Asensio, Mariano Díaz, Fabio Coentrao and Danilo. The Brazilian right-back, who limped out of Saturday's win at Osasuna, was able to train alongside his team-mates on Tuesday, but is not in Zidane's squad. 

Cristiano OK to start

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo is in the 19-man group and is fit to start, despite being confined to the gym on Monday with a knock picked up in Pamplona.

Real Madrid squad to face Napoli:

Goalkeepers: Keylor Navas, Kiko Casilla, Rubén Yáñez.

Defenders: Carvajal, Pepe, Ramos, Varane, Nacho, Marcelo.

Midfielders: Kroos, James, Casemiro, Kovacic, Modric, Isco.

Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Lucas Vázquez, Morata.

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