Real Mädrid manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed that they will not have any of their five injured defenders back in time for their Champions League clash with Juventus on Wednesday night at the Santiago Bernabeu. Los Blancos had been hoping that Dean Huijsen might return in time for their tie with the Bianconeri.
While the encounter with Juventus is obviously a major fixture, Los Blancos will have one eye on El Clasico on Sunday. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Carvajal and Huijsen are all thought to be close to fitness, and the latest is that they will all be in the squad to face Barcelona. Yet hopes they could be given minutes ahead of the clash were doused by Alonso.
“Looking ahead to tomorrow, I don’t think Huijsen, Trent, or Carvajal will be back. I’ll give you the final report on Saturday.”
Real Madrid’s plan for El Clasico
Recent reports have stated that Los Blancos intend to continue fielding Fede Valverde at right-back. There is little desire to throw either Alexander-Arnold or Carvajal in from the start under any circumstances. In Huijsen’s case there is more optimism that he could be in the line-up, but if he is not fit in time, Real Madrid intend to partner Raul Asencio with Eder Militao.
Alonso unwilling to go further on Miami game
Real Madrid have reportedly submitted a second complaint to the Ministry for Sport in Spain, as they continue to protest La Liga’s plans to host Villarreal-Barcelona in Miami this December. Alonso was asked if he had any further comments on it.
“You have asked me several times and my opinion is clear. The club is defending its interests and we will see what happens.”
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who spoke before Alonso, was somewhat stronger on the Miami game that his coach. The Spanish Footballers Association (AFE) have protested La Liga’s organisation of the game, while Los Blancos are the only club to declare public opposition to the idea.
