Real Madrid handed huge boost as veteran defender nears return for Rayo Vallecano clash | OneFootball

According to a positive report from AS, David Alaba is closing in on his return to action for Real Madrid, with the defender taking part in a significant portion of group training on Friday morning. 

The update comes as a major boost for Xabi Alonso, who has been dealing with several injuries across his backline in recent weeks.

The Austrian centre-back was heavily involved in the group’s main exercises at Valdebebas, signalling encouraging progress in his recovery. 

Provided he completes Saturday’s final training session without any setbacks, Alaba is expected to be named in the travelling squad for Sunday’s La Liga clash against Rayo Vallecano at Vallecas.

There are some absentees

This marks the first notable change in Alonso’s defensive options in recent days, as the manager continues to cope without Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Franco Mastantuono. 

Meanwhile, Alaba has missed Real Madrid’s last four matches due to a strain in his right calf muscle, sustained during the Getafe clash on 19 October. 

David Alaba has returned to training. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Prior to his injury, Alaba had featured in four matches this season, including appearances against Real Sociedad and Levante, as well as starting in the Champions League fixture in Kairat Almaty. 

His time on the sidelines coincided with Rudiger’s injury, forcing Alonso to rely on the Eder Militao and Dean Huijsen in central defence. 

While the latter has impressed, his lack of experience has occasionally tested Madrid’s defensive stability.

Real Madrid’s next fixture after facing Rayo Vallecano will be away to Elche on 23 November, where Alonso hopes to have a stronger squad available. 

For now, the return of David Alaba represents a welcome boost as Madrid aim to maintain their strong league form despite the ongoing injury crisis.