Real Madrid’s defensive stalwart, David Alaba, is set to sit out the remainder of the 2023-24 season and faces the unfortunate prospect of missing next summer’s European Championship.
This setback comes after the 31-year-old ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Real’s recent triumph over Villarreal, a match in which he was substituted in the 35th minute and assisted off the pitch by medical staff.
A club statement regarding Alaba’s injury conveyed the severity of the situation: “Following tests carried out on our player David Alaba, he has been diagnosed with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
The player will undergo surgery in the coming days.” This diagnosis places Alaba on an approximate eight-month recovery timeline, casting doubts on his availability for Euro 2024, which commences in seven months. Real Madrid is now compelled to seek a replacement in defense during the upcoming January transfer window.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his dismay over Alaba’s injury, acknowledging the challenging circumstances: “The medical report says it’s an ACL injury. It’s a shame, we are very sad. Another player has gone down. I’ve never had three ACL injuries in four months; it’s unbelievable (Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao).
We have nothing to do but let the team continue to do what it has done with all the injuries we’ve had. We’ve done even more than everyone thought we would.”
Alaba had been a key figure for Real Madrid, contributing to 16 appearances across all competitions this season and providing two crucial assists. With his absence, the team now faces the task of reshuffling its defensive lineup.
