Real Madrid is happy because they have succeeded in occupying first place in the 2023-2024 Spanish League standings after winning 4-1 over Villarreal. Unfortunately, in the midst of this happiness, there was bad news because Madrid’s mainstay defender, David Alaba, was declared to have suffered an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury.
As is known, Los Blancos – Real Madrid’s nickname – just won 4-1 when they hosted Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Monday (18/12/2023) early morning WIB. The four winning goals were scored by Jude Bellingham (25′), Rodrygo (37′), Brahim Diaz (64′), and Luka Modric (68′). Meanwhile, one goal for the visitors was contributed by Jose Luis Morales (54′).
Unfortunately, this landslide victory had to be paid very dearly because Alaba suffered an ACL injury. The Austrian national team player actually appeared from the first minute, but had to be withdrawn in the 35th minute, replaced by Nacho Fernandez.
The ACL injury means the 31 year old player is threatened with a long absence. The news that Alaba suffered an ACL injury was informed by Real Madrid after conducting in-depth observations.
The former Bayern Munich player is also reported to be undergoing surgery in the next few days.
“After examinations carried out on our player David Alaba, he was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. “He will undergo surgery in the next few days,” read a statement from Real Madrid on its official website, Monday (18/12/2023).
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was very sad to hear the news that Alaba had suffered an ACL injury. He is also practically following two other players who are currently suffering from ACL injuries, namely Eder Militao and Thibaut Courtois. The Italian coach hopes that this storm of injuries will not reduce the consistency of Los Blancos’ performance.
“We are very sad because he is another player we will lose. “I have never seen three of my players suffer serious injuries in three months,” said Ancelotti, quoted from the official Real Madrid website.
“What the team has to do is what they have done so far, with all the injuries we have had. “We have done more than anyone believed we could do,” he continued.
“Despite the problems, this team fought, tried hard, played great football and showed extraordinary commitment. That’s the only way to replace all the injured players. “We will see what can be done in the coming days,” he added.
Apart from that, this victory made Real Madrid top the standings with a collection of 42 points, just one point ahead of Girona. But this position could be displaced by Girona if they succeed in beating Alaves on Tuesday (19/12/2023).
