Real Madrid finds itself in a worrying situation with the David Alaba case. Absent since December 2023 due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, the Austrian defender attempted to return to training on October 10, 2024. However, his return was quickly hampered by recurring knee pain, which could put a strain on end to his career.
Cartilage pain worries Real Madrid
According to Onda Cero and Radioestadio Noche, David Alaba’s convalescence is complicated by the degradation of his cartilage. This problem leads to bone friction, causing intense pain. Despite initial progress in September, knee complications pushed back his return to January 2025, with no guarantee of success. Alaba, who replaced Sergio Ramos when he arrived at Real Madrid, has already missed 59 games since his injury.
Real Madrid are now considering recruiting a central defender this winter to compensate for the absences of Alaba and Militão. Although the main target is still William Saliba, the club is exploring other options to strengthen their defense. At 32, Alaba finds himself faced with the possibility of a premature end to his career, making his return to the highest level uncertain.
