Real Madrid News
Real Madrid expect injured superstar to return by mid-November – report
Last season, Real Madrid faced a taxing injury crisis, with several key players sidelined throughout the campaign.
The defence was particularly hard hit: Eder Militao and Thibaut Courtois both experienced injuries early in the season, and David Alaba suffered a torn ACL in December.
While the Merengues have recovered Courtois and Militao, Alaba is yet to return from his setback.
Alaba’s return edging closer
Now, according to AS, Real Madrid are growing increasingly optimistic about David Alaba’s recovery from the ACL injury he sustained last season.
The club’s medical staff have reported positive progress in his rehabilitation process. Although Alaba’s return to full fitness is still subject to further evaluation, the current expectation is that he will be able to return to competitive action by mid-November.
This is a positive development considering that earlier reports had suggested Alaba might be out until 2025.
This timeline would be a significant boost for the team, given that Real Madrid bid farewell to Nacho Fernandez, sold Rafa Marin to Napoli, and lost out on Leny Yoro, reducing their depth in the centre-back department.
While Los Blancos are unlikely to conclude the summer window without any reinforcements in their backline, Alaba’s return by November undeniably bodes well.
The Austrian’s experience and versatility are highly valued, and his presence would ensure Real Madrid are well-guarded against any unforeseen injury crises.
While Alaba has not yet been spotted sprinting on the field, Real Madrid are not worried and believes he will be back to his best soon enough.
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.
