Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso lost a key figure ahead of Juventus clash, with David Alaba ruled out for the remainder of the Club World Cup. The 33-year-old Austrian international had been sidelined since April after sustaining a meniscus injury in his left knee, which required surgery. Though he was making progress in his rehabilitation, his latest calf problem has forced Madrid to rule him out.
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Fresh setback for AlabaCentre-back ruled out of CWCHuijsen taking centre stageFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Alaba has not featured in any of Madrid’s three matches thus far and was expected to return later in the tournament. In his absence, new signing Dean Huijsen has risen to the occasion along with Aurelien Tchouameni and Antonio Rudiger in a three-man defence.
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"David is taking a bit longer [to recover]," Alonso said on Thursday. "After the [meniscus] operation we need to be cautious and patient, so step by step, we'll wait a bit longer."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Alaba isn’t the only big name Real Madrid are missing during the Club World Cup. Defenders Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, along with midfield maestro Eduardo Camavinga, are also on the road to recovery. The trio have been undergoing fitness programs at the club’s training base in Palm Beach.
Ferland Mendy and Brazilian starlet Endrick have remained in Madrid for treatment. Mendy’s return appears far off, with Alonso admitting, "Ferland is still a long way from being on the pitch. Eduardo is taking great steps forward in his recovery. Hopefully, we'll have him back. I don't know if in the next game, or if we go further."
DID YOU KNOW?
With Alaba and other senior figures missing, 21-year-old Gonzalo GarcĂa has stepped into the spotlight. The young forward has impressed during the group stage, scoring twice in three appearances. His latest goal came in a 3-0 victory over Austrian side Salzburg in Philadelphia, helping Madrid finish top of their group and qualify for the round of 16. Gonzalo’s rise has been crucial, especially given the continued absence of Kylian MbappĂ©, who is battling gastroenteritis.