Another injury setback for Real Madrid! Xabi Alonso loses key figure ahead of Juventus clash with Los Blancos star ruled out for remainder of Club World Cup

Alaba has not featured in any of Madrid’s three matches thus far and was expected to return later in the tournament. In his absence, new signing Dean Huijsen has risen to the occasion along with Aurelien Tchouameni and Antonio Rudiger in a three-man defence.

"David is taking a bit longer [to recover]," Alonso said on Thursday. "After the [meniscus] operation we need to be cautious and patient, so step by step, we'll wait a bit longer."

Alaba isn’t the only big name Real Madrid are missing during the Club World Cup. Defenders Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, along with midfield maestro Eduardo Camavinga, are also on the road to recovery. The trio have been undergoing fitness programs at the club’s training base in Palm Beach.

Ferland Mendy and Brazilian starlet Endrick have remained in Madrid for treatment. Mendy’s return appears far off, with Alonso admitting, "Ferland is still a long way from being on the pitch. Eduardo is taking great steps forward in his recovery. Hopefully, we'll have him back. I don't know if in the next game, or if we go further."

With Alaba and other senior figures missing, 21-year-old Gonzalo García has stepped into the spotlight. The young forward has impressed during the group stage, scoring twice in three appearances. His latest goal came in a 3-0 victory over Austrian side Salzburg in Philadelphia, helping Madrid finish top of their group and qualify for the round of 16. Gonzalo’s rise has been crucial, especially given the continued absence of Kylian Mbappé, who is battling gastroenteritis.

Despite the mounting injury list, Madrid remain favourites to progress deep into the Club World Cup. Should they beat Juventus on Tuesday, the Spanish side would continue through the knockout rounds with the final scheduled on July 13.