Real Madrid have been dealt a devastating injury blow after their win over Sporting in the Champions League.

Los Blancos have confirmed that Gareth Bale is set to be sidelined for around three months with an ankle injury. The Wales international damaged his ankle during the midweek and is all set to undergo an operation next Tuesday at the King Edward VII Hospital in London. So far, scans have shown that Bale has injured the peroneal tendon in his right ankle.

Real Madrid take on Barcelona in La Liga on the 3rd of December, and Zinedine Zidane will be without an in-form Gareth Bale for this crucial game. Los Blancos are currently four points ahead of their rivals at the top of the table, and next week’s game could be vital in the title race.

The statement from Real Madrid read:

The Real Madrid Sanitas Medical Services have decided that Gareth Bale will undergo an operation following the traumatic dislocation of the peroneal tendons of his right ankle. The operation will take place at King Edward VII Hospital in London on Tuesday, 29th November by doctor James Calder, under the supervision of the club doctors Jesus Olmo and Mikel Aramberri.

Gareth Bale has been in very good form this season, and his absence will be a major blow for Real Madrid over the next few months. The 27-year-old has scored7 goals in 16 appearances for the Spanish giants so far this season, and has had an outstanding tournament in France as well.