Real Madrid Back in Training with Focus on Manchester City
Following their controversial 1-1 draw against Osasuna on Saturday, Real Madrid returned to training today, shifting their focus to the upcoming UEFA Champions League playoff against Manchester City. This high-stakes encounter is scheduled for Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Los Blancos will aim to build on their 3-2 first-leg victory at the Etihad Stadium. The match is a crucial one, and the team is gearing up with renewed determination and optimism.
David Alaba’s Return Boosts Team Morale
A significant boost for Real Madrid comes in the form of veteran defender David Alaba, who has rejoined training. Alaba, an Austrian international, has been out of action for a few weeks due to a fresh adductor injury. This setback occurred shortly after his return from a year-long absence due to an ACL rupture. His return to training, as reported by MARCA, is a welcome development for the team, especially as they prepare to face the formidable Manchester City.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti’s Optimism
Manager Carlo Ancelotti has expressed optimism about the fitness of Alaba, along with fellow defenders Antonio Rudiger and Lucas Vazquez. Ancelotti revealed earlier this week that all three players are improving and will continue with individual work until Monday. He expects them to be available for the second leg against City. "They are improving. They will continue with individual work until Monday and will be available against City. Including Lucas Vazquez," the Italian manager stated. This positive outlook from Ancelotti is crucial for team morale, as it suggests that the squad is on the mend and ready to face the challenge ahead.
Alaba’s Early Recovery
Among the trio, Alaba has recovered the earliest and is already back in training. This development is particularly significant for Real Madrid, given Alaba’s experience and leadership on the field. However, it remains to be seen if Ancelotti will immediately thrust the former Bayern Munich star back into the starting XI. Alaba has played very little this season, and Ancelotti may opt for a cautious approach to ensure he is fully match-fit. Nonetheless, Alaba’s presence in training provides a much-needed boost to the team’s confidence and depth.
Rudiger’s Potential Return to the Lineup
While Alaba’s return is a positive sign, the focus will also be on Antonio Rudiger. If Rudiger is fully fit, Ancelotti is likely to insert him straight into the lineup against Manchester City. Rudiger’s physicality and defensive prowess would be invaluable against the attacking threat posed by City. However, if Rudiger is not 100% fit, the manager may stick with the pair of Raul Asencio and Aurelien Tchouameni, who performed admirably in the first leg at the Etihad. The defensive partnership’s ability to handle City’s attacking threats will be a key factor in the upcoming match.
Preparing for the Heavyweight Clash
As the team continues their preparations, the atmosphere at the training ground is one of focused intensity. The players are well aware of the magnitude of the challenge they face against Manchester City, a team led by the tactical genius Pep Guardiola. The 3-2 lead from the first leg provides a slight advantage, but there is no room for complacency. The Santiago Bernabeu will be electric with anticipation, and the players will be driven to secure a place in the next round of the Champions League. Real Madrid’s resilience and fighting spirit will be on full display as they aim to outdo their opponents and advance to the next stage of the competition.
