Real Madrid’s Defense in Crisis

Real Madrid’s defense is currently experiencing its most challenging period of the season. Injuries have been a constant issue throughout the year, significantly impacting an already thin defensive line. Now, in the final stretch of the 2024/2025 season, three additional injuries have put the team in a difficult position.

The defense is severely depleted with five La Liga matches remaining and no injured players expected to recover in time. Additionally, the Club World Cup will conclude the campaign, where the outlook for player recoveries remains bleak.

Rüdiger and Alaba Suffer Meniscus Tears

Antonio Rüdiger has been playing through pain in his left knee for some time. The German defender recently underwent surgery to address a partial tear in his external meniscus. His recovery is estimated to take 6-8 weeks, jeopardizing his participation in the Club World Cup.

David Alaba also sustained an injury during a recent match against Getafe. He has been diagnosed with a tear in the internal meniscus of his left knee and will require surgery. Like Rüdiger, Alaba is expected to be sidelined for 6-8 weeks.

Mendy’s Latest Setback

Ferland Mendy has suffered a tear in the proximal tendon of the rectus femoris in his right quadriceps. This injury, the most severe of his numerous setbacks this season, is expected to keep him out of action for 10-12 weeks, effectively ending his season.

Limited Defensive Options

With these three new injuries, in addition to long-term absentees Militao and Carvajal, Real Madrid is left with only three first-team defenders available: Fran García, Lucas Vázquez, and Jesús Vallejo. The team will likely need to rely on youth team players and repositioning midfielders to fill the gaps in defense for the remainder of the season.

This defensive crisis poses a significant challenge for Carlo Ancelotti and his team as they approach the final stages of their campaign and prepare for the Club World Cup.