Real Madrid defender David Alaba is set to make his long-awaited return to action in Sunday’s La Liga clash against Las Palmas at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the Austrian international could see some minutes more than a year after sustaining a severe ACL injury in December 2023.
David Alaba, 32, who joined Real from Bayern Munich in 2021, has been a crucial figure for the club, contributing five goals and nine assists in 102 appearances.
David Alaba’s return offers a much-needed boost to Real Madrid’s injury-plagued defense, which is already missing Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal due to similar knee injuries.
“Alaba is fine,” Ancelotti stated. “He played 40 minutes yesterday with good feelings. He won’t start tomorrow but can get some minutes. The knee is responding well, though he still needs rhythm.”
Real Madrid, currently second in La Liga with 43 points, are looking to maintain momentum after their 2-1 win over Valencia last week, despite being without star forward Vinicius Jr due to suspension.
However, Ancelotti continues to face scrutiny following a 5-2 Super Cup loss to Barcelona and a tough extra-time victory over Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey.
The Italian coach acknowledged the criticism but emphasized his commitment to improvement: “The match against Barcelona was my responsibility. Criticism is fair, but the fans also remember what we’ve achieved. This team is alive and will fight until the end.
As Real prepare for their Champions League group-stage match against RB Salzburg on Wednesday, Alaba’s return could provide a timely lift as the club battles on multiple fronts.