David Alaba Set for Potential Return Against Las Palmas After Lengthy Injury Layoff

Real Madrid's defender David Alaba is on the verge of making a return to the pitch for the LaLiga match against Las Palmas, marking a significant milestone as he recovers from a serious knee injury. The Austrian player has been absent since December 2023 due to an Anterior Cruciate Ligament rupture in his left knee, which required additional surgery in May 2024.

Alaba has had a notable impact during his time at Real Madrid, scoring five goals and providing nine assists across 102 matches since his transfer from Bayern Munich in July 2021. Carlo Ancelotti, the club's manager, stated that Alaba's fitness is improving, and although he will not start the match, there is potential for him to play some minutes, particularly after his positive 40-minute showing in a recent session.

Real Madrid, who previously drew 1-1 with Las Palmas in August, will benefit from Alaba’s inclusion, especially as their defensive options are already limited due to injuries to Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal. Moreover, the team is preparing to face the game without talisman Vinicius Jr., who is serving a suspension after receiving a red card in their last league match.

Despite being in a respectable second place in the league with 43 points, Ancelotti has faced criticism following a heavy defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup and a tough extra-time victory against Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey, which was met with displeasure from fans. Nonetheless, Ancelotti remains confident in his team's ability to compete and insists he still has full support from the club. He acknowledged the need for improvement in various areas and recognized that recent underperformance falls under his responsibility, although he also reminded fans of the successes the team has achieved together.

Looking ahead, Real Madrid's journey continues in the Champions League, where they currently sit in 20th place, preparing to face RB Salzburg on Wednesday.