Real Madrid faces a significant setback that may influence their strategy ahead of the upcoming El Clásico clash with Barcelona
As the highly anticipated El Clásico approaches, both Real Madrid and Barcelona are closely assessing the health status of their key players. However, Los Blancos are currently grappling with a particularly challenging defensive situation.
Mounting defensive injuries threaten Real Madrid’s El Clásico preparations
The injury woes that plagued Real Madrid last season have unfortunately persisted into the current campaign, placing their defensive lineup under intense strain. With Antonio Rüdiger sidelined until December and David Alaba still regaining full match fitness, Xabi Alonso‘s central defense options are becoming increasingly scarce.
Ferland Mendy has only recently resumed training after a six-month absence, while Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both nursing muscle injuries, racing against the clock to be fit for the showdown against Barcelona.
Adding to the defensive concerns, Dean Huijsen recently withdrew from international duty due to muscle discomfort. Initial hopes that he would be available for the upcoming Juventus fixture have diminished.
Reports from Diario AS indicate that the club remains uncertain about Huijsen’s readiness for El Clásico, describing his recovery as “touch and go.” The injury, involving the soleus muscle, is notorious for its tendency to recur, prompting Real Madrid to proceed with caution to prevent further setbacks.
Barcelona monitors Real Madrid’s injury challenges as El Clásico nears
Huijsen’s absence has already been confirmed for Sunday’s match against Getafe, with Raul Asencio expected to partner Éder Militão in central defense.
While alternatives such as David Alaba and Álvaro Carreras remain options, Alonso’s defensive resources are limited. Should Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold fail to recover in time, Federico Valverde may once again be tasked with covering the right-back position-a role he has adapted to reluctantly over the past season.
Meanwhile, Barcelona is also contending with injury setbacks. Several pivotal players remain in rehabilitation following the international break, leaving both teams uncertain about their final lineups for El Clásico.
The Catalan side is aware that a compromised Real Madrid defense could shift the tactical advantage in their favor, yet they remain cautious not to underestimate Alonso’s ability to adapt under pressure.
As the countdown to El Clásico intensifies, all attention is focused on Real Madrid’s medical staff and the latest updates regarding Huijsen’s condition.