David Alaba’s future at Real Madrid and in football is in serious doubt as his injury struggles have worsened. The 32-year-old Austrian defender, who tore his ACL in December 2023 during a match against Villarreal, has been out of action for nearly a year, with his recovery progressing much slower than initially expected. Hopes for a return in October 2024 have been dashed, and his comeback is now delayed until at least 2025.
Alaba’s knee injury has reached a concerning stage, with reports indicating that cartilage loss in his knee has caused severe pain, as the bones are now rubbing together. This has significantly hindered his ability to train or play, raising the possibility that he may never fully recover. At just 32, Alaba may be forced to consider early retirement if his condition doesn’t improve.
Alaba, who has had a stellar career with clubs such as Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, is facing the painful prospect of stepping away from the sport. Despite efforts to regain fitness, the outlook remains uncertain. If he is unable to continue, it would mark a premature end to a career filled with numerous titles and achievements.
In addition to Alaba, fellow Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal is also grappling with a serious injury. After a heavy collision in a recent match, doctors estimate only a 50-60% chance of his full recovery, casting doubt on his future in football as well. Both players have had remarkable careers, and while the thought of retirement is difficult, they can reflect proudly on their accomplishments.
Reports from ‘Onda Cero’ suggest that Alaba’s recovery has been complicated by cartilage deterioration, leading to painful bone-on-bone friction. While no official decision has been made about his future, concerns are mounting.
Real Madrid, dealing with injuries to key defenders like Alaba, Carvajal, and Eder Militao, is actively searching for a new center-back to strengthen their defense in the next transfer window. Though the rumors surrounding Alaba’s retirement remain unconfirmed, his situation highlights the severity of his injury and its potential impact on the team.