Real Madrid Faces Defensive Setback
Real Madrid’s defensive line has faced another significant blow as veteran center-back David Alaba sustained a calf injury, as announced by the club on Friday. The 33-year-old player has not participated in any of the team’s matches in the ongoing Club World Cup due to a lingering recovery from a meniscus injury in his left knee, which he incurred back in April.
Impact on Upcoming Matches
Alaba’s latest injury is likely to sideline him for the remainder of the tournament. Real Madrid is poised to face Juventus in the round of 16, scheduled for Tuesday in Miami, Florida, with potential matches following that could lead them to a quarterfinal on July 5, a semifinal on July 9, and the final on July 13.
Coach’s Update on Alaba
Coach Xabi Alonso provided an update on Alaba’s condition, stating, “David is taking a bit longer [to recover]. After the [meniscus] operation, we need to be cautious and patient, so step by step, we’ll wait a bit longer.”
Injury Concerns and Player Recovery
Real Madrid has been grappling with several injury concerns ahead of the Club World Cup, impacting key players along their defensive and midfield lines. Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, and Eduardo Camavinga are all making strides in their recovery at the team’s training facility in Palm Beach. Meanwhile, Ferland Mendy and Endrick have remained in Madrid for their rehabilitation processes.
“Ferland is still a long way from being on the pitch,” Alonso remarked. “Eduardo is taking great steps forward in his recovery; hopefully, we’ll have him back soon—possibly not in the next match, but if we progress further in the tournament.”
Endrick is expected to congregate with the squad in the coming days, although his available playing time during the Club World Cup remains uncertain. Alonso remains optimistic about his condition, saying, “Endrick is recovering, and we want him available as soon as possible. I’m counting on him, for sure.”
Emerging Talent
During their time without Alaba and other key players, Gonzalo García, a 21-year-old talent, has risen to the occasion, netting two goals across three group matches in the United States, including a notable performance in Thursday’s 3-0 victory against Salzburg in Philadelphia.
