Real Madrid News
Real Madrid concerned as star defender’s recovery not going as per plans
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.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
