Xabi Alonso facing major selection dilemma ahead of Super Cup derby | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s defensive planning ahead of the Spanish Super Cup semi-final has become increasingly complicated, with fresh concerns emerging around Dean Huijsen’s readiness. 

According to an update shared by Miguel Angel Diaz, the young centre-back has only taken part in three training sessions since returning from injury, raising serious doubts about whether he is physically prepared to start such a high-intensity match.

This situation leaves Xabi Alonso with a difficult decision at the worst possible moment. 

This is because Antonio Rudiger remains a major doubt due to ongoing knee discomfort, a worrying development given the German defender’s importance to an already stretched back line. 

Familiar trouble for Real Madrid

In theory, the most straightforward solution would be to pair Huijsen with Raul Asencio at centre-back. 

On paper, that partnership makes sense, as they are the only recognised central defenders available to Alonso if Rudiger fails to recover in time. However, Huijsen’s lack of match fitness complicates that plan. 

Dean Huijsen might not be ready to feature. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Limited training time casts doubt on whether he can cope with the physical demands and rhythm of a Super Cup semi-final, especially against an elite opposition.

Because of this uncertainty, Alonso is also weighing an alternative approach. One option under consideration is shifting Alvaro Carreras into the centre of defence and deploying Fran Garcia at left-back. 

While Carreras is naturally a full-back, his profile offers more physical security than an undercooked Huijsen, particularly if the coaching staff feel the Dutch defender is not ready to start.

Defensive absences have been a recurring theme for Real Madrid throughout the season, and this latest setback only explains how fragile the situation has become. 

Alonso travelled to Saudi Arabia with three left-backs, namely, Carreras, Ferland Mendy, and Fran Garcia, yet the rest of the defensive unit remains precariously short on reliable options. 

So, if Rudiger is ruled out and Huijsen is deemed unfit to start, Alonso may have little choice but to improvise once again.