Xabi Alonso receives great news ahead of his first El Clasico

Real Madrid is expected to see the return of an important squad member ahead of the match against Barcelona in La Liga.

According to AS, Dani Carvajal was initially expected to be sidelined for 4 to 5 weeks due to a torn Achilles tendon in his right leg. However, thanks to a rapid reduction in swelling, Real Madrid is optimistic he could return in just over three weeks. Carvajal himself is highly determined to be available for the El Clasico against Barcelona at the end of this month. This is extremely positive news for coach Xabi Alonso ahead of his first "Super Classic" match as a manager.

The Spanish defender suffered an injury during Real Madrid's 2-5 loss to Atletico Madrid in La Liga. The Euro 2024 champion had to leave the pitch in the 59th minute at Wanda Metropolitano, being replaced by Eduardo Camavinga. Just one day later, Real Madrid issued an official statement confirming Carvajal’s muscle tear.

The first El Clasico of the season will take place at the Bernabeu on October 26. This match is considered highly influential in the title race since Barcelona currently leads the standings by just one point ahead of Real Madrid.

With Trent Alexander-Arnold still sidelined for another 5 to 6 weeks due to injury, Los Blancos are even more eager for Carvajal’s early return to strengthen their defense and boost their chances of a favorable result in this crucial early-season fixture.

Both Barcelona and Real Madrid have started the 2025-26 season impressively, despite some minor inconsistencies. After securing a domestic treble last season, Barcelona aims to defend their titles. They began with a 3-0 victory at Mallorca, followed by a 3-2 away win against Levante.

Although held to a 1-1 draw by Rayo Vallecano, the Catalan side quickly regained form with a dominant 6-0 win over Valencia. They then secured wins against Getafe (3-0), Real Oviedo (3-1), and Real Sociedad (2-1). In the Champions League, Barcelona triumphed 2-1 at Newcastle’s St. James’ Park but suffered a 1-2 defeat at home against PSG at the temporary Estadio Olimpic Lluis Companys.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid also began La Liga robustly with a 1-0 home win over Osasuna at the Bernabéu, followed by a 3-0 away thrashing of Real Oviedo. They continued with victories over Mallorca (2-1), Real Sociedad (2-1), and Espanyol (3-0). Los Blancos then defeated Levante 4-1 before suffering a surprising 2-5 heavy loss in the Madrid derby against Atletico.

In the Champions League, Real Madrid confirmed their strength by winning 2-1 against Marseille at home, then crushing Kairat 5-0 away, demonstrating serious preparation for this season’s title race.

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