Real Madrid reinstate David Alaba from injury « Euro Weekly News

Real Madrid are ready to unveil an unexpected ‘new signing’ when they face Manchester City in their upcoming Champions League knockout. 

Los Blancos sailed past Brest with a comfortable 3-0 victory on January 29. But the chatter around the Bernabeu wasn’t about the three points – it was about who Ancelotti and Real wanted to avoid in Europe. The Italian boss openly admitted he’d rather tangle with Celtic than City in the draw. “If we play City, it will be more complicated for both of us,” he confessed.  

Knockout nightmare for both Real Madrid and Man City

Ancelotti’s nerves aren’t unfounded. Madrid and City have turned into near-annual rivals in Europe’s biggest competition. They’ve faced off in the semifinals twice and the quarterfinals just last season. Madrid famously triumphed in 2022, then City got their revenge a year later and lifted the trophy. In 2024, Ancelotti’s men sneaked past City on penalties in the quarterfinal before marching on to conquer Bayern in the semis and Borussia Dortmund at Wembley, securing their record-extending 15th Champions League crown.

This time round, the first leg on February 11 heads to the Etihad, with the decisive second clash at the Bernabeu just eight days later. Expect fireworks – and a possible new secret weapon in white.

What happened with Alaba at Real Madrid?

Fans have been buzzing about David Alaba’s long-awaited return. He’s been sidelined since suffering a devastating ACL rupture in December 2023. After more than a year out, Alaba finally made a brief cameo against Brest, enjoying eight precious minutes on the pitch.

Ancelotti is desperate to shore up a shaky defence that’s left him ‘breaking out in cold sweats’. With Eder Militao ruled out by a second ACL tear in as many seasons and President Florentino Perez keeping the chequebook firmly shut, Alaba might just be the tonic Real Madrid need at centre-back. The Austrian veteran brings 119 Champions League appearances and three final outings to the table.

So, while Pep Guardiola braces for Los Blancos’ lethal attacking force, the real surprise could be lurking in the heart of Madrid’s defence. Getting Alaba back is almost as much of a boost as unwrapping a blockbuster January signing. Will he be the difference at the Etihad? Who will march on? Get the popcorn ready – the stage is set for another classic showdown between these two sides.

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