Real Madrid faced a troubling report as the club confirmed setbacks that weighed on the squad ahead of a critical run in the season. Injuries to key figures have disrupted plans for important clashes, with David Alaba and Rodrygo Goes among those affected. The first leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Liverpool at Anfield proved especially costly, and the Spanish giants now navigate a pathway without some of their most trusted names. The roster has already endured a string of musculoskeletal issues across the campaign, underscoring the physical toll of a demanding schedule and the challenges of balancing recovery with high-stakes competition.
In more precise terms, the club disclosed a tear in the biceps femoris of the right leg for David Alaba. The Austrian international exited the field in the middle of the first half after a knee-related issue, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to rethink his defensive architecture midgame. This development followed a season in which Alaba had already been kept out of several key fixtures, including the Spanish Super Cup and multiple league matches, as he managed a recovery from a prior soleus problem. The medical team estimates a likely absence of around a month, a period that will require careful management to return the defender to peak match fitness without risking a setback. Real Madrid has stressed the importance of a gradual, controlled comeback to ensure long-term stability in the backline as the campaign progresses.
Rodrygo Goes, meanwhile, is dealing with a muscular issue described as a small tear in the left hip region. The update indicates a return timeline of roughly ten days to two weeks, during which the Brazilian forward will not be available for selection. This type of injury, while not uncommon for a player with his explosive style and heavy involvement in attacking duties, adds another layer of complexity to the team’s forward planning as they prepare for a busy sequence of fixtures at home and abroad. The club’s medical staff will monitor Rodrygo closely to optimize conditioning and prevent a recurrence once he resumes training with the squad.
Additionally, goalkeeper and defender options have faced disruption as well, with Mendy also reported to be in a period of rehabilitation that will extend for at least two more weeks. These injuries have a ripple effect across the squad, compelling the coach to lean on other experienced members of the squad to cover for absentees while preserving freshness for the most demanding matches of the importance. The balance between preserving depth and sustaining form becomes a focal point for the coaching staff as they navigate a congested calendar and the high expectations coming from the club’s supporters.
As a result, Ancelotti is currently exploring tactical reshuffles and reshaping the defensive and midfield lines to adapt to the latest fitness updates. The plan includes adjustments in personnel to ensure the unit remains cohesive and capable of withstanding the physical demands of European competition as well as domestic commitments. The coaching staff is evaluating the best configuration to maximize collective resilience, with particular attention paid to the defensive axis and the roles of full-backs to maintain solidity in transition and set-piece scenarios. The depth of the squad will be tested, but the focus remains on sustaining a level of performance that can secure positive results in upcoming fixtures.
Looking ahead to the derby against Atletico Madrid on Saturday at the customary kickoff time, the absence of Alaba and Rodrygo will require further recalibration. The predicted lineup is expected to feature Carvajal and Militao anchoring the defense, with Militao operating on the right flank as needed and Nacho stationed on the left side to provide defensive stability. Rüdiger will be positioned centrally as part of the backline, while the options on the left and right wings for support in attack and defense will be adjusted accordingly. The absence of two pivotal players deepens the challenge, but the squad remains hopeful that Rodrygo will be available for the Cup clash against Barcelona on March 2, offering a potential return to a more advanced attack to complement the other attacking options. The Derby carries high stakes, and a strong performance could set the tone for the remainder of the season, while the medical staff continue to monitor all players for any signs of progress or setbacks. Real Madrid remains focused on delivering a competitive response and leveraging their accumulated experience in big matches to blunt any edge that injury concerns might create for their rivals in both domestic and European competition. Sources within the club have provided updates on the situation, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to player welfare and strategic planning as the season unfolds.