Real Madrid are continuing their strong performances as a team. After a 4-1 win over Granada this weekend in La Liga, Los Blancos were even more thorough in their demolition of Sheriff Tiraspol, avenging an earlier Champions League loss with a 3-0 win in Moldova.
Toni Kroos and Rodrygo Goes led the way for a competent attack, while the defense was excellent and well-shielded by Casemiro and Co. in midfield.
There were a ton of positives to take away from the easy win, but Madridistas were also concerned about the status of all-important center back David Alaba.
The first goal-scorer of the night from a free kick, Alaba had another quiet and composed outing in central defense for Los Blancos. But he had to be subbed off for Nacho Fernandez in the 64th minute after being on the ground with a possible injury.
Alaba was dealing with some left knee discomfort, and any time you hear of knee pain, you immediately get concerned.
David Alaba’s injury is not expected to be serious
However, there is some good news regarding the Austrian captain’s status. Sergio Quirante reports that Alaba’s injury is only a minor sprain. Carlo Ancelotti himself said in the post-match press conference that the injury does not appear to be serious and that Alaba will hopefully play against Sevilla over the weekend.
Madridistas won’t breathe easy until they see their star man in the XI and ready to go against Sevilla, who are in the thick of an open league title race. Real Madrid are the favorites, but they will be in a fight. Sevilla, Atletico Madrid, and Real Sociedad are all on tap for the Whites – not to mention Inter Milan in the final group stage match of the 2021-2022 Champions League.
We must keep an eye on further updates regarding Alaba’s status. He has been so, so important to this team in central defense as a leader, intelligent reader of the game, and fiery personality willing to put his body on the line to stop any shot at any cost. And that’s not even mentioning his outstanding passing, technique, and attacking qualities.
Hopefully, the injury is indeed nothing serious, but even minor knee discomfort and a minor sprain is cause for concern among Madrid fans. Doubly so after what the squad endured in 2020-2021.