Madrid's defensive crisis easing as Rudiger, Trent and Mendy near return
Real Madrid's depleted backline set to receive timely boost ahead of Valencia clash, with three key defenders expected back in the squad after injury layoffs.
Real Madrid’s makeshift defence could soon be bolstered by the return of three key players ahead of Sunday’s tricky away trip to Valencia’s Mestalla stadium.
Defensive reinforcements on the way
The injury-ravaged backline that forced Arbeloa to field three midfielders in defensive positions against Rayo Vallecano should receive significant strengthening, with Antonio Rüdiger, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ferland Mendy all expected to return to the squad this weekend.
The situation had become so dire that in the second half against Rayo:
- Tchouaméni dropped into central defence after Asencio was replaced by Ceballos
- Camavinga started at left-back
- Valverde filled in at right-back
- Huijsen was the only natural defender until he was substituted in the 77th minute for Alaba
Carvajal conundrum continues
Despite the defensive crisis, captain Dani Carvajal remains a curious case. The experienced right-back has been named in matchday squads for some time but hasn’t been getting minutes under Arbeloa. Meanwhile, Carreras, who had been a regular starter under both Xabi Alonso and initially Arbeloa, found himself relegated to the bench against Rayo following his performance against Benfica in Lisbon.
Key returnees
With Militão not expected back until at least March, Rüdiger’s return is particularly vital. The German international offers the experience and leadership Arbeloa needs at the heart of defence both on and off the pitch.
Mendy continues to struggle with injury problems but provides defensive solidity at left-back – the attribute that repeatedly earned him starting spots under both Zidane and Ancelotti despite offering less going forward than other options.
Trent’s troubled start
Alexander-Arnold remains something of an enigma at Madrid. The free transfer from Liverpool (though Madrid paid a fee to have him available for the Club World Cup) started promisingly but has seen his momentum repeatedly stalled by injuries.
The English right-back now faces a battle for minutes, with his World Cup prospects potentially in jeopardy if he can’t establish himself at club level. His return gives Arbeloa another defensive option as Madrid prepare for a crucial period in their season.