There have been contradicting reports regarding the recovery timeline of Real Madrid defender David Alaba, who has been sidelined with an ACL injury since December last year.
While it was never expected that the Austrian international would be ready in time for the start of the season, recent reports from his homeland suggested that the centre-back could be out of action until the turn of the year.
It has left Carlo Ancelotti with only Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger as the two senior centre-backs, although Jesus Vallejo is an option for the Merengues.
But, there may be some good news with regard to the condition of Alaba and his possible comeback.
Alaba could start training in two weeks
Indeed, according to journalist Rodra P (h/t Madrid Zone), people close to Alaba say that they expect the defender to resume training on the grass in a couple of weeks.
In fact, it is being suggested that the former Bayern Munich defender could be back in action as early as October.
If true, it represents a big boost for Real Madrid considering previous reports had put Alaba’s return for as late as January 2025.
Alaba is considered an extremely important player by Ancelotti owing to his quality, professionalism, and personality.
The fact that he offers a left-footed presence at the heart of the defence, opening up different passing angles from the back, also counts as an advantage, especially with Toni Kroos no longer at the club to drop into the left-side channel in the defensive third and play passes.
Real Madrid, thus, will be eagerly awaiting for Alaba to complete his recovery and get back to working on the field.