Real Madrid's performance has declined this season, currently ranking second in La Liga and 20th in the UEFA Champions League. Despite this, the team has shown signs of recovery with recent results of four wins and one draw. Fans are eagerly awaiting the club's actions during the winter transfer window to bolster the squad's strength. It now appears that Real Madrid's "first signing" has been revealed. Congratulations to Real Madrid! The "first winter signing" has been announced, with a top-class center-back coming to the rescue, alleviating Coach Ancelotti's urgent need.
On December 29th, Spanish media outlet Marca reported that David Alaba, who has been out for an extended period due to injury, is expected to rejoin team training on December 30th. Alaba will determine his return date based on his specific recovery progress. It is known that Alaba has fully recovered from his injuries.
Alaba suffered a knee anterior cruciate ligament injury last December and has not played for Real Madrid for over a year. Even without Alaba, Real Madrid has demonstrated its strength by winning five titles this year, securing all available championships except for the Copa del Rey. Alaba's imminent return is indeed akin to a significant new signing for the club.
The new year is approaching, and Real Madrid has at least seven matches scheduled for January 2025. If they reach the final of the Spanish Super Cup, they will play eight matches. Their second match in January is against Segunda División B team Minera Sporting. For Alaba, who has been away from competitive action for a long time, the Copa del Rey presents a chance for his comeback. He can start or come off the bench to find his competitive rhythm. After a long absence due to a knee injury, Alaba will need to gradually rebuild his match fitness, taking some time to regain his form and aiming to showcase his excellent abilities again in the latter part of the season.
Alaba left Bayern Munich in the summer of 2021 to join Real Madrid on a free transfer, replacing the departing Sergio Ramos as the new number 4. Ramos is a legendary center-back for Real Madrid, and the pressure on Alaba was evident. However, Alaba possesses solid skills, quickly integrating into the team and seamlessly taking over from Ramos. He became a key defensive player for Real Madrid, helping the team win the UEFA Champions League as a mainstay. Unfortunately, injuries affected his performance last season.
Real Madrid's central defense is currently weak, with Militao out for the season, Coach Ancelotti not trusting Vallejo, Asensio still maturing, Rudiger playing every game, and Tchouaméni filling in at center-back. The team needs reinforcements at center-back, but it seems that President Florentino Pérez does not have such plans. Fortunately, the 32-year-old Alaba is set to resume training and is close to returning, which is great news for Coach Ancelotti.