David Alaba Set for Emotional Return After 399-Day Injury Absence

MADRID, Spain — After 399 days on the sidelines, Real Madrid defender David Alaba is poised to make his long-awaited return to the pitch. The 32-year-old Austrian international, a key figure in Madridu2019s 2022 Champions League triumph, has endured a grueling recovery from a devastating knee injury suffered in December 2023.

Alabau2019s injury occurred during a seemingly innocuous challenge with an opponent in a La Liga match. The collision left him with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and cartilage damage in his left knee. u201cMy kneeu2026u201d Alaba said as he lay on the pitch, his teammates visibly shaken by the severity of the injury. The Bernabeu fell silent as medical staff rushed to his aid.

The injury marked a low point in Alabau2019s illustrious career, which includes multiple league titles and Champions League victories with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid. Known for his versatility and leadership, Alaba had become a cornerstone of Madridu2019s defense since joining on a free transfer in 2021. His absence was deeply felt as Madrid navigated a season plagued by injuries to key players, including fellow defenders Eder Militao and Thibaut Courtois.

Alaba underwent surgery on December 19, 2023, under the care of Dr. Christian Fink, the Austria national team doctor. The recovery process was fraught with challenges, including a second surgery in May 2024 to address complications from Cyclops syndrome, a condition that can develop after ACL surgery. u201cAt his age, an injury like this in most cases could be the end for top players,u201d a Madrid staff member told The Athletic.

Despite the setbacks, Alaba remained determined to return. He worked tirelessly with Real Madrid physiotherapists Pedro Belon and Guillermo u2018Willyu2019 Zurdo, even continuing his rehabilitation during holidays. u201cIt was a really long and hard process, not an easy year for meu2026 Iu2019m so happy to be back with the team; I missed it a lot,u201d Alaba said in an interview with Real Madridu2019s media team.

Alabau2019s return has been carefully managed, with gradual increases in training intensity to avoid further complications. He began working with the ball again in November 2024 and recently participated in a public training session, where fans showed their support. Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that Alaba would make his comeback in a La Liga match against Las Palmas on January 20, 2025, though he will not start the game.

Internally, there is optimism about Alabau2019s ability to regain his form. u201cHe is a different type of defender u2014 the only left-sided centre-back in the squad u2014 who can be another leader given his experience and influence,u201d a club source said. Alabau2019s resilience and positive attitude have been a source of inspiration for his teammates, particularly younger players like academy defender Joan Martinez, who also suffered an ACL injury.

As Alaba prepares to step back onto the pitch, his focus remains on contributing to Real Madridu2019s success. Despite interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, Alaba is determined to extend his stay in Madrid, with his current contract set to expire in 2026. For now, however, the Austrian is simply relishing the chance to play football again after a year of pain, perseverance, and patience.