Trent Alexander-Arnold Comeback Boost: Real Madrid Eye Juventus Test Before El Clasico

Real Madrid has received a timely boost as Trent Alexander-Arnold edges closer to his long-awaited return from injury. The Football Breakdown, will discuss interesting information about today’s football, check out this discussion.

The English full-back has resumed full training with the squad and could feature in the Champions League clash against Juventus. After missing six consecutive games and skipping international duty, his recovery progress has encouraged both the medical and coaching staff.

Head coach Xabi Alonso remains cautious, however, preferring to ensure Trent’s fitness before risking him in back-to-back high-intensity fixtures. Madrid’s plan is to give the right-back limited minutes against Juventus to gauge his match sharpness ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona. His creativity from deep positions and ability to invert into midfield make him a crucial tactical weapon in Alonso’s system.

Trent’s return also provides much-needed stability in defense, which has been stretched thin due to multiple injuries. With Ferland Mendy also returning to full fitness, Madrid could regain both first-choice full-backs in time for a decisive week in their season.

Carvajal and Huijsen Doubts Cloud Clasico Preparations

Despite Trent Alexander-Arnold positive recovery, Real Madrid’s defensive concerns persist. Dani Carvajal and Dean Huijsen remain doubtful for both the Juventus match and the upcoming Clasico. Both trained individually earlier this week, and their participation will depend on late fitness assessments. Carvajal continues to struggle with muscle tightness, while Huijsen has not yet joined full team sessions.

Carvajal’s absence would be particularly troubling for Alonso, who values his leadership and defensive reliability in big matches. Without him, Madrid may have to depend heavily on Alexander-Arnold. So forcing the Englishman to handle two physically demanding matches in quick succession. If both full-backs remain unavailable, Federico Valverde might once again be deployed in an unfamiliar defensive role.

Meanwhile, Dani Ceballos is also sidelined, reducing Madrid’s midfield rotation options. Though not a regular starter, his absence limits Alonso’s ability to manage player fatigue during a congested schedule that includes two high-stakes fixtures in just four days.

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Injury Woes Continue, Rudiger and Alaba Concerns

Real Madrid’s injury list remains a major concern, with Antonio Rudiger ruled out of both the Juventus tie and El Clasico. The German defender is still recovering from a thigh injury and is expected to miss several more weeks. His absence leaves Madrid short of experienced center backs, particularly with David Alaba also being monitored closely after feeling discomfort in his right leg against Getafe.

Medical tests will determine Alaba’s availability, but Alonso may be forced to use Aurelien Tchouameni as an emergency central defender once again. The French midfielder has filled that role admirably in recent matches, though it limits Madrid’s midfield stability and distribution.

The club’s medical team continues to manage workloads carefully. So balancing the urgency of the season’s defining moments with the long-term health of key players. Alonso’s tactical flexibility will be tested more than ever in the coming days.

Tactical Adjustments and Squad Depth Challenges

With a crucial Champions League match and El Clasico looming, Xabi Alonso must find the right balance between recovery, rotation, and performance. Trent’s potential return offers new attacking dimensions from the backline, but Madrid’s defensive depth remains thin. Mendy’s availability is a welcome boost, allowing Camavinga to return to midfield and restore structural balance.

Madrid’s current situation highlights their need for adaptable players. Veterans like Valverde and Camavinga have been essential in covering multiple roles, reflecting Alonso’s emphasis on tactical versatility. Still, sustained injuries to Rudiger and Carvajal could expose weaknesses if not managed carefully.

As Juventus awaits in Europe and Barcelona looms domestically, Real Madrid’s resilience will once again be tested. Trent’s comeback could mark a turning point—not only for the team’s defensive strength but also as a statement of intent heading into one of the most defining weeks of their campaign. Also take advantage of your free time to explore more of the latest LaLiga news with just one click at footballtipsonline.co.uk.