Yesterday, Real Madrid suffered a significant setback as two of its defenders sustained injuries while playing against Villarreal. The match ended in a 4-1 victory for Real Madrid. Despite the fact that it was a day for celebration, los blancos were instead preoccupied with coping with two further injuries.
David Alaba has damaged his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and as a result, he will miss the remainder of the season as well as maybe the 2024 European Championships. In contrast, Ferland Mendy’s injury is not as severe, and it is possible that he will still be able to play against Deportivo Alaves.
Following the revelation that Eder Militao had also sustained an injury, stories began to circulate that Madrid was interested in acquiring numerous center backs from throughout Europe. Among the individuals whose names were mentioned in the rumors were Antonio Silva, Goncalo Inacio, Rafa Marin, and even Raphael Varane.
However, according to a report by Jose Felix Diaz, it seems that Madrid has made up its mind and will not be signing a center defender during the winter transfer window in order to replace David Alaba.
What is the reason why Madrid does not want to sign a central defender?
Since a long time ago, Madrid has adhered to the principle of not spending a lot of money during the January transfer window. They have this policy because they think that doing so does not adequately reflect the requirements of the club and might result in choices that are hasty or just temporary.
Additionally, they will not enter the transfer market in order to acquire a center back since they will continue to uphold this stance. It was never on their list of places that need reinforcements, and even if they have their sights set on it for the summer, the left-back position will be given priority among their positions of interest.
How many different choices does Madrid have for the remainder of the season?
Both Nacho and Antonio Rudiger are still very much a part of the club, and they are able to make a quick switch in the center defense position if it is required.
On the other hand, the latter has already played an absurdly high number of minutes this season, and if he is not handled correctly, he may also end himself on the bench.
In a different context, Carlo Ancelotti advocated for the possibility of Aurelien Tchouameni playing the position of center defender. It is possible that Daniel Carvajal, who has had experience playing in that position, may be called upon.
In the same way that Nico Paz has made a difference in the middle of the field, players from Castilla, such as Alvaro Corrilla, who has been called up for a good number of games this season, may also be counted on.