Real Madrid defender Pepe sat out Wednesday's practice and will not see action Thursday against Barcelona in the first leg of the Spanish Supercopa at Camp Nou.

"Pepe will not play," said Real coach Jose Mourinho. "If it were up to him he would, but we are not going to allow it. It is not human to risk (the health of) a player for a soccer match."

The Portugal international clashed heads with teammate Iker Casillas Sunday night in Real Madrid's La Liga opener and had to be replaced at halftime before being taken to the hospital. He spent the night under observation and was released Monday.

Real Madrid held its final training session Wednesday morning before traveling to Barcelona.

"I want to thank you all for the many messages of support that I have received over the past few days. Very soon I will be in perfect shape to continue fighting for the shirt and for our club," Pepe said in a statement on the club's website. "A big hug to everyone".

Information from Efe news agency was used in this report.