Real Madrid: Will Alaba return in time for Man City clash?

The Real Madrid defender has struggled with several fitness issues so far this season.

David Alaba will reportedly return in time for the first leg of Real Madrid’s clash against Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals.

The former Bayern Munich sustained a calf injury during Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Chelsea on Tuesday. Initial speculations suggested Alaba could face another lengthy spell on the sidelines.

However, new test results show Alaba has suffered a small muscle tear in his right calf. According to ESPN, the Blancos defender will sit out for at least ten days.

Real Madrid hope to have Alaba back in their squad for the Copa del Rey final against Osasuna on May 6. The Blancos will host Man City in the Champions League three days later.

Alaba’s return will be a major boost for Real Madrid ahead of facing City’s in-form attacking line. Pep Guardiola’s men reached the semi-finals with a 4-1 win on aggregate against Bayern Munich.

Alaba will most likely return to the heart of Real Madrid’s backline, where he has formed a solid partnership with Eder Militao. However, the presence of Bernardo Silva on the left-hand side of City’s attacking unit could convince Carlo Ancelotti to return the 30-year-old to his natural left-back place.