Trent Alexander-Arnold on his way back! England star in line for Real Madrid return against Juventus but Xabi Alonso still sweating on Dani Carvajal and Dean Huijsen for Clasico clash against Barcelona

Madrid have been handed a much-needed boost as Alexander-Arnold completed a significant part of training with the squad, raising hopes of his inclusion against Juventus in the Champions League, according to AS. The England international has missed the last six matches through injury and also sat out international duty. His recovery has progressed well, and Madrid staff believe he could be named in the travelling squad if he completes one more session without discomfort.

Alonso is expected to be cautious. Trent has been sidelined for over a month, and while his return would be timely, the coaching staff must decide whether to start him or ease him back from the bench. With a packed schedule and El Clasico on the horizon, the plan is to involve him against Juve to assess his rhythm and readiness. For now, his comeback offers tactical balance, especially with his playmaking from deep and ability to invert into midfield.

His return would also help ease concerns in defence, where Madrid have been forced to rotate heavily due to injuries. With Ferland Mendy also returning to full training and available for Juventus, Alonso may have two of his preferred full-backs back in contention at a crucial point in the season.

While Alexander-Arnold’s return is positive news, Los Blancos remain uncertain over the fitness of Dani Carvajal and Dean Huijsen. Both players trained individually to start the week and are unlikely to feature against the Bianconeri. Their availability for El Clasico remains in doubt, and Madrid will monitor their progress day by day. Carvajal is dealing with muscle discomfort, while Huijsen has yet to rejoin full sessions following his injury setback.

Carvajal’s situation is particularly concerning for Alonso. The veteran full-back brings defensive solidity and experience in big games, and without him, he may need to rely on Alexander-Arnold playing multiple high-intensity matches in quick succession or turn to makeshift solutions. If neither the Englishman nor Carvajal are fully match fit for Barcelona, Federico Valverde could be forced to fill in. Huijsen, meanwhile, is valued for his aerial presence and distribution but faces a race against time.

Adding to the complications, Dani Ceballos is also training alone and is unlikely to make the squad for Juventus. While not a guaranteed starter, his absence reduces midfield depth and affects rotation plans. With two massive contests within four days, Madrid's medical staff are attempting to fast-track recoveries without taking unnecessary risks.

Madrid remain stretched defensively, with Antonio Rudiger officially ruled out of El Clasico. The centre-back is only halfway through his recovery from a rectus femoris injury and is expected to miss several more weeks. His absence leaves a notable gap in central defence, especially with Alaba also a concern after feeling discomfort in his right soleus against Getafe. The Austrian will undergo medical tests to determine whether he can feature midweek or at the weekend.

Mendy, however, has given the club some relief. He completed full training and is expected to be available against Juventus. His return allows Eduardo Camavinga to move back into midfield if needed, restoring balance in both defensive and midfield structures. That said, Alonso will weigh whether to start him immediately or introduce him gradually.

In midfield, no new injuries have surfaced, but the lack of depth in defence means Aurelien Tchouameni may again be forced to cover at centre-back if Alaba is unable to play. The club are expected to make a final decision on selection after Tuesday’s training session and medical reports.

Los Blancos must first navigate their Champions League meeting with Juve before turning full attention to Barcelona. A win against the Italian side would keep them in control of their European campaign and provide momentum heading into the Clasico. Alonso will likely balance rotation and rhythm, using returning players like Trent and Mendy but managing minutes carefully.

El Clasico, however, is the real focus. Barcelona sit just two points behind Madrid in La Liga, and a defeat could see the league leaders lose their cushion at the top. If Carvajal and Huijsen are deemed fit, they could be rushed back into the squad.

Beyond injuries, Alonso will stress composure and energy management. The team have already come through a narrow 1-0 win against Getafe and know there is no room for error. With Juventus on Wednesday and Barcelona on Sunday, this week could shape Madrid’s season and Trent’s return comes at just the right time.