Cristiano Ronaldo presence was missed in Madrid’s only defeat this season and, with the Portuguese international now sidelined for the next couple weeks, Real Madrid will have a chance to show their true grit. While neither coach nor players referenced Ronaldo’s absence as an excuse, it was certainly a topic of discussion from the front pages of Marca to the pubs throughout the city the day after a 2-1 loss at the hands of Sevilla.

Ronaldo has assured fans that he has not re-aggravated the injury he had surgically repaired last season while Madrid brass were quick to criticize Portuguese manager Carlos Queiroz for playing a still-injured Ronaldo. Madrid’s star midfielder has admitted that he did not feel one hundred percent before the match but fit enough to play; however, he was removed from the game after only a half an hour.

So what does this mean for Los Blancos? Ronaldo will most likely miss at least four league games, including the Madrid derby at the Vicente Calderon on November 8th. As well as the start to Madrid’s Copa del Rey campaign, the Portuguese star will miss both legs of Real’s Champions League competition against Italian powerhouse and 2007 champion, AC Milan. Ronaldo has said he will do his best to back on the pitch as soon as possible but is also aware of the consequences of a premature return.

The spotlight will now be on the Spanish capital, as Pellegrini’s men will look to get back on track this Saturday against Valladolid. With a plethora of talent in the midfield, the Ballon d'Or winner’s boots can be filled but not replaced. It will be a chance for the boys in white to prove to not only Spain but also Europe that they are serious trophy contenders this year by overcoming the loss of their premier player.

As for how it will affect Madrid, we will know a lot more about the character of the club in a few weeks time. A successful run without the world player of the year in La Liga as well as the Champions League will send a resounding message throughout the continent about the disposition of Real Madrid. Champions overcome adversity, the next month will tell us a great deal about Madrid's perseverance.