Real Madrid receives a boost that could change the outcome of El Clasico

Following a hamstring injury that kept him out for more than a month, Trent Alexander-Arnold is healing quicker than initially forecasted and might be ready for the big El Clasico match versus Barcelona.

Real Madrid started the 2025/26 season with difficulties as their defense faced consecutive setbacks. Antonio Rudiger is out for an extended period, while both right-backs Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold have also suffered injuries, forcing coach Xabi Alonso to rotate with temporary solutions such as Raul Asencio and Federico Valverde.

Specifically for Trent, the hamstring injury he sustained during the Champions League match against Marseille was expected to keep him sidelined for at least six to eight weeks. This was a major blow for Real Madrid, as the English player was anticipated to be a key piece in Alonso’s new tactical setup. He only managed to play 5 minutes in his European debut for the royal club before leaving the pitch in pain.

However, Alexander-Arnold’s recovery is progressing far beyond expectations. Real Madrid’s medical team confirmed he could resume normal training in about two weeks, significantly earlier than initially predicted. The club aims to have the English defender in peak physical condition and ready to play in the El Clasico against Barcelona on October 26.

If everything goes according to plan, Trent could return to action right after the international break in the match against Getafe on October 19, giving him extra time to regain match sharpness before facing Barcelona at the Bernabeu. The 26-year-old’s availability for this crucial first leg is considered a “big positive” for Real Madrid, especially as the team needs defensive stability.

Alongside Trent, Dani Carvajal is also recovering from a calf injury and is likely to return around the same time. This situation presents an intriguing choice for coach Xabi Alonso, who must decide between two top right-backs for his first El Clasico as Real Madrid’s manager.

Alexander-Arnold’s return carries not only tactical importance but also serves as a significant morale lift for the whole team. Despite just joining from Liverpool during the summer transfer window, he quickly demonstrated his influence through his ability to initiate attacks, deliver long passes, and coordinate with the midfield. Real Madrid expects him to become a “key” element in the ball control and quick transition style that Xabi Alonso is developing.

To date, Trent Alexander-Arnold has missed 5 matches, including the 2-5 loss to Atletico Madrid — Real’s first defeat this season. His absence is believed to have noticeably weakened the defense. Now, with his rapid recovery, the English defender is expected to return at the perfect time to help Real Madrid regain form and prepare thoroughly for the highly anticipated El Clasico, where all eyes will be on Santiago Bernabeu.

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