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Real Madrid’s injury crisis was a major topic of discussion last season, forcing coach Carlo Ancelotti to devise several creative solutions to mitigate the impact.
The defence was hit hardest, with early injuries to Eder Militao and Thibaut Courtois, and David Alaba suffering a torn ACL in December. Courtois and Militao have since recovered, but Alaba is still out.
With defensive absences causing headaches for selectors last season, this issue seems to be extending into the coming campaign.
Alaba’s recovery process not going according to schedule
Now, according to SPORT, David Alaba’s recovery is a concern for Real Madrid, as the initial hope for an October return may not be met.
Alaba has been sidelined since last December with a torn ACL in his left knee, which he sustained against Villarreal.
There were expectations that he could be back sometime in October or mid-November, but things are not going as per plans.
With slow progress being observed, the Austrian’s prolonged absence raises question marks about Los Blancos’ defensive depth entering the new season.
Real Madrid have bolstered their attacking department with the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick, but Alaba’s injury further complicates Madrid’s central defensive options for the start of the season.
Indeed, with Nacho’s departure, Rafa Marin’s transfer to Napoli, and Manchester United snatching Leny Yoro away from Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti has merely three fit centre-backs at his disposal: Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, and Jesus Vallejo.
Aurilien Tchouameni chimed in with dependable displays in the heart of defence for Real Madrid last season. Still, he is primarily a midfielder by trade and has shown his aptitude in the position countless times, most recently with the French national team in the Euros.
As such, Real Madrid may need to explore new centre-back signings to avoid enduring a fate similar to last season
