Timely boost for Real Madrid! When forgotten Los Blancos defender should finally make long-awaited comeback from injury

Real Madrid are hoping to welcome Alaba back to first-team action at the beginning of 2025, according to AS. The Austrian has been sidelined since December 2023 with a serious knee injury but is working his way back to full fitness. Alaba is back in training in the Spanish capital and is gradually building up his fitness with a view to a comeback in January.

Alaba's return comes at a good time for the Spanish giants. Carlo Ancelotti's side have lost both Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao to season-ending injuries, leaving the Italian manager short of options in defence. The Madrid boss is planning on deploying Aurelien Tchouameni in his backline due to his lack of defenders but will surely be thrilled to see Alaba available again after a lengthy period on the sidelines.

Real Madrid are yet to pencil in an exact return date for Alaba but a source told AS: "He is becoming more and more confident and is doing more things in training."

Real Madrid still have some key fixtures to negotiate before Alaba is due to return at the start of 2025. Los Blancos take on Leganes, Getafe, Athletic Club and Girona in La Liga and face Liverpool and Atalanta in the Champions League.