Real Madrid manager injury-crisis-revealed-by-carlo-ancelotti/” title=”Causes of Real Madrid's Injury Crisis Revealed by Carlo Ancelotti”>Carlo Ancelotti
has put an end to speculation about David Alaba’s retirement, stating that the injured defender is close to returning to full fitness. Alaba suffered a serious knee injury in December 2023 during a match against Villarreal, making him the third Real Madrid player to be sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury last season. While Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao have already made their comebacks within eight months, Alaba is still in the process of recovering.In May, Alaba underwent further surgery after experiencing a setback in his rehabilitation. The club has been cautious about providing a specific timeline for his return. However, rumors of retirement began circulating during the October international break but were quickly dismissed by Ancelotti.
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s upcoming match against Celta Vigo on Saturday, Ancelotti assured reporters that Alaba will be back soon and will soon start training with the team as he continues to recover well.
Alaba is not the only player facing fitness concerns at Real Madrid. Dani Carvajal recently suffered a severe ACL tear that ended his season early, while young center-back Joan Martinez also sustained a long-term knee injury.
These absences have led to speculation about Real Madrid seeking reinforcements in the January transfer window. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold has been mentioned as a potential signing either in winter or next summer.
However, Ancelotti dismissed any notion of relying solely on transfers and stated that he hasn’t requested additional players from the club. He emphasized that they managed injuries well last year and will do so again this season. While they won’t rule out signing players if needed, they also have talented homegrown players who can contribute to the team.