Kaka has been left out of Manuel Pellegrini's squad for the Champions League clash with Marseille in midweek.

The Brazilian has been suffering from a groin problem, and played no part in Los Blancos' come-from-behind victory over Almeria at the Bernabeu on Saturday evening.

The medical team had been hopeful that the 27-year old would be available for the trip to France, after training separately from his colleagues in the past seven days.

However, Marca comments that he has not recovered in time and as a precaution will remain in Madrid to hasten his recuperation.

In addition, coach Pellegrini has also omitted the trio of Ruud van Nistelrooy, Guti, and Cristoph Metzelder, with all three players suffering from muscle injuries that have kept them out of action.

Madrid travel to Marseille requiring just a point to secure their place in the next round, and even a defeat of less than three goals will be enough to see Los Blancos through as a result of a superior head-to-head record with l'OM.

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