Real Madrid News
Real Madrid defender causing alarm bells at club – injury update
David Alaba’s recovery from a serious injury has raised significant concerns within Real Madrid so much so that he is not currently part of the club’s immediate plans, primarily due to lingering issues with his physical condition.
In fact, according to Rodra (h/t RM4 Arab), his recovery is far from the competitive level required to return to action, leaving the club uncertain about when he might make his comeback.
Alaba suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his left leg during a match against Villarreal in December 2023.
Nearly a year has passed since the injury, yet the path to his return remains a cautious one.
Although Alaba resumed light training in November, which included handling the ball on the pitch, progress has been slow.
Furthermore, his enthusiasm has grown with the start of December, but the overall outlook remains cautious, and optimism is tempered by the need for a measured approach.
Real Madrid are worried
Observers at Valdebebas, Real Madrid’s training ground, note that Alaba’s current fitness levels and performance in training sessions are not indicative of a player ready for high-level competition.
His recovery exercises suggest he is still far from being match-fit, and there is no clear timeline for his return. The club remains wary of rushing his comeback, knowing the importance of a fully fit Alaba to the team’s plans.
Despite these challenges, manager Carlo Ancelotti continues to view Alaba as an integral part of the squad and hopes he can make his return during the current season.
When can he play?
The initial plan is for Alaba to be ready by January 2025, coinciding with the opening of the winter transfer window.
However, uncertainty persists, as no definitive date has been set for his return, and further delays are possible.
As the January window approaches, Real Madrid faces a decision on whether to strengthen their defensive options or rely on Alaba’s eventual return.
For now, patience and careful management are the priorities as the Austrian works towards regaining full fitness.
Real Madrid News
English legend backs Real Madrid star to become one of the all-time greats: ‘He’s got everything’
Jude Bellingham has spent the past fortnight as the most talked-about footballer in England, and the superlatives show no sign of slowing down.
A masterclass in the Nations League, a clutch of records and a second straight Player of the Year award has not gone unnoticed in English footballing media.
Now one of the English game’s most respected voices has added his name to the growing list of believers.
Lineker backs Bellingham
Asked whether Bellingham can go on to become one of the greatest players of all time, England legend Gary Lineker left no room for doubt.
“Yes, I’ve been saying it for a long time now. If he avoids serious injury or falls of the rails which he won’t I’m sure.
“He’s so good at football, he’s got everything. He’s a superstar and carries himself like a superstar,” he said (h/t Track Radio).
The verdict chimes comes in the midst of a wider chorus of acclaim in recent days. Roy Keane tipped him to become one of the greatest of all time after the Croatia rout, with Ian Wright and Micah Richards among others queuing up to praise him.
Backed by the numbers
The acclaim for Bellingham comes on the back of an extraordinary international break for Bellingham.
Against Croatia, Bellingham scored one and created three in the 7-0 win, becoming the first England player to record four goal involvements in a single game since David Platt in 1993.
He finished the window with one goal and four assists and was named UEFA’s Player of the Round.
That international excellence has carried over to the Bernabeu, where he has settled into a free number 10 role under Jose Mourinho and sits as the club’s joint-leading creator.
Bellingham was part of Real Madrid’s recent 1-0 win over Villarreal as well, and was unlucky not to register an assist when Vinicius Jr.’s goal was disallowed.
The Englishman will be looking to make an impact once again when Real Madrid take on AS Roma this Wednesday.
