Real Madrid Set David Alaba Return Date After Long ACL Recovery
Real Madrid fans can finally look forward to seeing David Alaba back in action, with the Austrian defender targeting a return in next month’s La Liga clash against Las Palmas on January 19, 2025. Alaba, sidelined since December 2023 due to a severe ACL injury, has made significant strides in his recovery and recently resumed full team training.
A Grueling Year of Recovery
Alaba’s ACL injury last year marked one of the most challenging periods of his illustrious career. Initially, his rehabilitation process was slow, with setbacks that delayed his return to team activities. However, toward the end of 2024, the defender was able to rejoin portions of Real Madrid’s training sessions, signaling a turning point in his recovery.
According to MARCA, Alaba has now fully integrated into team drills following the conclusion of La Liga’s winter break. Real Madrid’s medical staff, optimistic about his progress, believe he will be fit enough to feature against Las Palmas.
A Timely Boost for Real Madrid
Alaba’s return couldn’t come at a better time for manager Carlo Ancelotti, who has faced a defensive crisis this season.
Current Defensive Woes
- Eder Militao: Sidelined with his second ACL injury in as many years.
- Antonio Rudiger: The only fully fit and senior center-back available.
- Jesus Vallejo: Available but rarely trusted by Ancelotti.
- Makeshift Solutions: Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni and youngster Raúl Asencio have often been deployed in central defense to fill the gaps.
Alaba’s experience and versatility will be crucial as Madrid looks to maintain their title push and compete on multiple fronts in the second half of the season.
Upcoming Fixtures Without Alaba
While Alaba’s return is eagerly anticipated, Real Madrid will still have to navigate several key fixtures without him:
- Valencia (January 3)
- Deportivo Minera (Copa del Rey, January 6)
- Mallorca (January 13)
- Potential Supercopa de España Final (January 14)
Ancelotti will rely heavily on Rudiger and his makeshift options to hold the fort until Alaba’s expected comeback.
The Importance of Alaba’s Return
Since joining Real Madrid from Bayern Munich in 2021, David Alaba has been a cornerstone of the team’s defense. His ability to seamlessly transition between center-back and left-back roles, coupled with his leadership qualities, makes him an invaluable asset.
Alaba’s Key Stats at Real Madrid
- Appearances: 89
- Goals: 5
- Assists: 8
- Trophies: 5 (including La Liga 2021/22 and UEFA Champions League 2021/22)
Beyond his on-field contributions, Alaba’s composure and experience will help stabilize a defense that has struggled for consistency in his absence.
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
Real Madrid currently sits in a tight race for the La Liga title, battling with Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. The return of Alaba adds depth and flexibility to their defensive lineup, potentially giving them an edge in the league and other competitions.
Post-Alaba Return Fixtures
- Las Palmas (January 19)
- Athletic Club (January 24)
- Celta Vigo (January 28)
With Alaba back in the fold, Ancelotti can also look to rotate his squad more effectively, reducing the strain on Rudiger and Tchouaméni, who have shouldered the bulk of the defensive workload.
Conclusion
David Alaba’s long-awaited return is a beacon of hope for Real Madrid as they enter a critical phase of the season. While the Austrian defender will miss a few more matches, his expected availability against Las Palmas will mark a significant step toward bolstering Madrid’s defensive resilience.
For fans and teammates alike, Alaba’s return represents not just a recovery from injury but a revival of Real Madrid’s strength at the back.
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