Real Madrid continued their fantastic start to the season with a 4-1 win over Villarreal. Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo look unstoppable at the moment, as both found the back of the net. Brahim Diaz and Luka Modric were the other two goal-scorers for Carlo Ancelotti's side. But it was not all positive for Los Blancos coming out of the match.
David Alaba was forced off the pitch in the first half itself. The signs were worrying and the fans feared a serious injury.
Unfortunately, those fears have come true. As tweeted out by Mario Cortegana, Alaba has torn his ACL. He will be out for around eight months, so he will miss the rest of the 2023-24 season and EURO 2024. Real Madrid want to sign a centre-back in January.
Real Madrid are paper thin at centre-back right now. Eder Militao had also torn his ACL earlier in the season. That has left them with only Antonio Rudiger and Nacho as the only two genuine options there. Aurelien Tchouameni can play in the heart of defence if needed.
Real Madrid player suffers season-ending injury vs Villarreal
There had been question marks over Alaba's performances this season. But he was a regular starter and one of the most experienced players in the team regardless.
Real Madrid will certainly miss his presence in the team moving forward. He is also someone who could fill in at left-back when the situation calls for it. And overall, the lack of options is not good news at all.
It remains to be seen who Real Madrid end up signing in January. Whether it is a long-term centre-back or someone who is brought in on loan till the end of the campaign as a short-term fix to the problem.
Also, we would like to extend our best wishes to Alaba in his recovery. Hopefully, he recovers fully and is back on the pitch in the Royal White jersey soon.