Real Madrid have been dealt a major blow ahead of the highly anticipated El Clásico showdown, as star defender David Alaba has officially been ruled out due to injury.
The 32-year-old Austrian has been struggling with a recurring knee problem and has failed to recover in time to feature against arch-rivals Barcelona. His absence comes as a serious setback for Xabi Alonso, who is already facing a defensive shortage heading into one of the most crucial fixtures of the season.
This development couldn’t have come at a worse time for Los Blancos, who are determined to tighten their grip on the La Liga title race. Alaba’s presence at the back has been vital — not only for his defensive solidity but also for his leadership, composure, and ability to dictate play from deep positions. His knack for reading the game and organizing the defense has made him an indispensable part of Madrid’s setup.
Without Alaba, Real Madrid may face challenges maintaining their usual balance between defense and attack. His injury also hampers their ability to play out confidently from the back — a tactical strength that has been a core part of Carlo Ancelotti’s philosophy in recent seasons.
Fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for the veteran defender, who has already missed several key games this campaign due to persistent fitness issues. For now, the responsibility falls on Alonso to adjust his defensive lineup, possibly relying on players like Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militão, or Nacho Fernández to fill the void.
The first leg of the El Clásico for the 2025/26 season is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Despite Alaba’s absence, Madrid supporters remain optimistic that the team can rise to the occasion. With the home advantage and a solid attacking front, the fans believe Los Blancos can still find a way to contain Barcelona’s offense, secure the three points, and keep a clean sheet in one of football’s most fiercely contested rivalries.