Real Madrid’s defensive lineup has received a significant boost as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dani Carvajal, and Dean Huijsen are set to return for the crucial match against Barcelona this Sunday. Alexander-Arnold, who had been absent from the last seven matches due to a hamstring injury sustained against Marseille, is expected to rejoin the squad alongside Carvajal and Huijsen, both of whom have also dealt with muscular injuries recently.
Huijsen’s absence was felt in the victories against Getafe and Juventus, having pulled out of the Spain squad with a calf injury. Carvajal, meanwhile, missed key matches due to a similar muscular issue and a suspension from the Champions League after being sent off against Marseille.
In a further boost for Madrid, Dani Ceballos, who has also been sidelined due to a muscular problem, is now available for selection. Coach Xabi Alonso expressed optimism on Saturday, stating, “Almost all the players who couldn’t play against Juventus are in the squad. You’ll see it tomorrow. I’m working on the premise that all the players in the squad can be starters.”
However, the team will still miss defenders Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba. Rudiger has been out since September with a left leg injury, while Alaba suffered a muscle issue that forced him off during the half-time against Getafe.
As La Liga leaders, Real Madrid has a golden opportunity to extend their advantage over second-placed Barcelona to five points in this high-stakes encounter. The return of key players adds to Madrid’s resilience and depth, presenting a hopeful outlook for their performance against their fierce rivals.