Real Madrid is preparing for David Alaba’s return, but it won’t be as soon as expected. The plan is for the Austrian defender to begin training with his teammates in January, though his actual return to competitive action will take longer. According to Relevo, this is part of a strategy crafted by Florentino Pérez and Carlo Ancelotti.
Alaba has been sidelined for over a year, and the club is cautious about rushing his recovery. No specific timeline has been set for his comeback, as further setbacks could occur in the coming weeks. The current plan is for him to rejoin training in January, but Ancelotti doesn’t expect to have him available for matches until March.
To avoid a major setback, Alaba will spend the next few weeks preparing for the crucial part of the season. The club considers him a key center-back and aims to have him fit for the decisive moments when titles are on the line. Alaba has agreed to the cautious approach, and all parties are committed to a careful and gradual return.
Real Madrid’s decision regarding Alaba also influenced their January transfer strategy. Florentino Pérez has decided not to pursue a new center-back this winter. The club is confident in the potential of Raúl Asencio, who has impressed in the first team and is expected to remain with the senior squad rather than return to Castilla. The club plans to renew his contract and further develop his role for the remainder of the season.
Asencio’s progress has been promising, and he is expected to step in as needed without the need for another center-back. In addition to Asencio, Alaba’s recovery will be crucial for Real Madrid’s defense in the second half of the season. Both players, alongside Antonio Rüdiger, are seen as the key to a well-rounded defensive lineup for the crucial months ahead.
