Real Madrid surprised by veteran defender’s level after injury return

Real Madrid have started 2025 with one major positive: The return of David Alaba.

The veteran defender had been struggling on the sidelines for well over a year due to a serious injury. But he has finally returned to the pitch and has featured in the last couple of matches.

David Alaba’s return has already alleviated one key worry for Real Madrid in the defensive unit, which is the overburdening of Antonio Rudiger.

Alaba closing in on first start

A recent report from Manuel Amor has offered a fresh update on Alaba’s fitness, suggesting that the defender is closing in on making his first start since returning from injury.

The report adds that Alaba has defied expectations, returning not just to play but to perform at a level that has left club officials and teammates alike in awe.

The surprise at his recovery pace is palpable within the club, where long, arduous comebacks have become all too familiar.

Alaba’s progression from short stints to increasingly longer appearances on the field, to that end, has come as a sigh of relief for those at Real Madrid.

His recent performances, including 15 minutes against Las Palmas, nearly half an hour in the Champions League against Salzburg, and 23 minutes in Valladolid, all culminating in positive feedback from both the medical team and coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The Real Madrid manager has emphasized that Alaba’s return to the starting eleven will be when he himself feels ready.

With the Champions League match against Brest looming, Alaba’s inclusion in the starting lineup could be imminent.