Pepe has fractured his 7th and 8th ribs

Pepe came off during the Real Madrid - Atlético Madrid match (which finished 1-1) in the 67th minute, after Toni Kroos accidentally collided with the Portuguese defender. Pepe took a blow from the German's knee and was unable to carry on, showing clear and serious signs of pain. Even as Pepe fell, having taken the blow, he was already asking for assistance.

Pepe's double rib fracture

Pepe headed to hospital to undergo tests and Real Madrid later released a medical report to confirm that the player has fractured his 7th and 8th ribs, putting at risk the remainder of the season for the player.

Pepe's other rib injury

This isn't the first time Pepe has suffered rib damage. On 15 January 2015, in another Madrid derby at the Santiago Bernabéu, a collision with Raúl García caused the injury which saw Pepe out for 35 days, though on that occasion the ribs were bruised rather than broken. He missed six games on that occasion: Getafe, Córdoba, Real Sociedad, Sevilla, Atlético and Deportivo.

Pepe's contract finishes this June

Pepe's contract with Real Madrid finishes on 30 June and he has offers from China, as well as interest from teams such as PSG and several Premier League outfits. Madrid are keen for the player to sign an extension, but only for one year, while Pepe feels he is due at least two.

Madrid defensive woes ahead of Bayern match

This injury to Pepe comes at a terrible time for Zidane's side, with Varane also out injured. This means Real Madrid are heading into their most crucial part of the season with with just two fit central defenders, Ramos and Nacho. Zidane's side play Bayern Munich home and away in the Champions League (on 12 and 18th April respectively), before the potentially Liga deciding Clásico against Barcelona on 23rd April at the Bernabéu.