David Alaba nears Real Madrid return after gruelling recovery

By SABC Sport
15th November 2024

David Alaba is closing in on a long-awaited return for Real Madrid after nearly a year sidelined with a knee injury.

The Austrian defender, who has endured months of setbacks and uncertainty, is now making significant progress in his rehabilitation, much to the relief of manager Carlo Ancelotti and the club's fans.

"Turn and go back again," a coach was heard instructing Alaba during Wednesday's training session, captured on video. Alaba, navigating cones on the training pitch, has been intensifying his individual work.

Encouragingly, his knee is finally responding positively, allowing him to move closer to rejoining team training. If all goes well, he is expected to return to group sessions in December, giving Ancelotti a major boost ahead of the season's critical phase.

Alaba's road to recovery has been anything but straightforward. Initially expected to be fit for the start of the season, complications arose early in his rehabilitation, leading to a second surgery in May. That setback meant starting the recovery process from scratch, a crushing blow for both Alaba and Real Madrid, whose defensive options have been stretched thin in his absence.

The mental toll of the injury was significant. For months, Alaba worked behind closed doors at Valdebebas, battling frustration and uncertainty.

However, a turning point came recently when his knee began to improve noticeably. "The journey back is worth every step," Alaba shared on social media alongside a photo of himself running on the grass, prompting an outpouring of support from teammates and fans.

Ancelotti also expressed optimism, stating in a press conference, "We have young players stepping up, and Alaba will soon join the squad."

Since suffering the injury in December last year, Alaba has missed 51 matches for Real Madrid, 34 last season and 17 so far this campaign. His return will be vital, but regaining match fitness after such a prolonged absence will not be easy. With the season entering its decisive phase, Ancelotti faces the challenge of reintegrating Alaba without disrupting the team's rhythm in high-stakes fixtures.

Nonetheless, Alaba's imminent comeback is a morale boost for the squad. For Real Madrid, having a player of his calibre back in the heart of their defence will feel like a marquee signing at a crucial time. December could mark the start of Alaba's resurgence and Real Madrid's defensive revival.