David Alaba starts for Real Madrid after 14 months

Real Madrid have been handed a huge boost in their objective to retain their Spanish top-flight crown as David Alaba is back in the starting lineup for the first time in 14 months for the Liga clash against Girona.

The Austrian defender made his anticipated return last month as he came off the bench in the 4-1 win over Las Palmas after spending 399 days on the sidelines due to an ACL injury. 

But Alaba's comeback was shortlived as he was ruled out again a couple of weeks later, this time due to an adductor injury in his left leg. He recovered from the setback within three weeks as he rejoined the team in training ahead of the Champions League clash against Man City.

Although he was not able to feature in either of the two legs against Guardiola's side, the 32-year-old player is now ready to contribute to the 'Merengues' from kick-off at the Santiago Bernabeu this afternoon.

 

February 23, 2025