Seven Injured Real Madrid Players and Their Expected Return Dates

Real Madrid may have returned to the top of La Liga with a convincing 3–1 victory over Villarreal, but beneath the surface of celebration lies a growing concern for manager Xabi Alonso. The Spanish tactician has been forced to navigate a mounting injury crisis, with several key figures currently sidelined ahead of a crucial stretch of fixtures in both La Liga and the Champions League.

The win over Villarreal was impressive — full of intensity, pressing, and attacking flair — yet the sight of empty seats on the Real Madrid bench told another story. Alonso’s squad depth has been tested to its limit, and with several big names on the injury list, every match is a tactical puzzle.

Below is an updated look at the seven injured Real Madrid players, their recovery status, and potential return dates as the club braces for a demanding schedule.

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Real Madrid’s newest superstar, Kylian Mbappé, caused alarm when he limped off during France’s victory over Azerbaijan earlier this week. Although he has withdrawn from international duty as a precaution, medical assessments at Valdebebas have ruled out any serious damage. The forward is expected to rejoin team training soon.
Possible return: vs Getafe — October 19

Alonso and his staff are confident the injury won’t prevent him from featuring immediately after the international break. With his explosive pace and goal-scoring instincts, Mbappé’s presence will be vital as Real Madrid look to maintain their domestic lead and push for early qualification in the Champions League.

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2. Franco Mastantuono

The Argentine teenager has been one of the revelations of 2025. However, his momentum was halted after suffering a mild muscle strain while on international duty against Venezuela. The club’s medical team is monitoring him closely, preferring a cautious approach to avoid aggravation.
Possible return: Late October 2025

Mastantuono’s absence leaves a creative gap in midfield, especially given his growing chemistry with Jude Bellingham. Alonso is hopeful he will be available before the end of the month.

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3. Trent Alexander-Arnold

Since arriving from Liverpool, Trent Alexander-Arnold has become a key component in Alonso’s tactical system. His versatility — operating both as a right-back and as an inverted midfielder — gives Real Madrid an extra dimension in possession. Unfortunately, a lingering hamstring injury has kept him out since September.
Possible return: vs Getafe — October 19

The Englishman is now in the final phase of recovery and expected to make the squad once club football resumes. His return will be a huge boost, especially with Dani Carvajal also sidelined.

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4. Dean Huijsen

Promising defender Dean Huijsen missed the international break due to a muscle problem. The issue, though minor, forced Alonso to shuffle his defensive options. The coaching staff remains optimistic about his return in time for European competition.
Possible return: vs Juventus — October 23

Huijsen’s recovery will come as welcome news, with Alonso keen to rotate his defensive line as fixtures pile up.

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5. Dani Carvajal

One of Real Madrid’s most experienced figures, Dani Carvajal, sustained a knock during the heavy derby defeat to Atlético Madrid. Although not considered a long-term injury, it came at a crucial time. The veteran right-back’s leadership and tenacity have been missed in recent weeks.
Possible return: vs Barcelona (El Clásico) — October 26

Medical reports indicate steady progress, and Carvajal is being carefully prepared for a possible El Clásico return — a game that could have significant implications for the La Liga title race.

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6. Ferland Mendy

French full-back Ferland Mendy has endured another frustrating spell on the sidelines, having yet to make a single appearance under Alonso this season. Persistent muscle and conditioning issues have hindered his return to full fitness, and patience within the camp is beginning to wear thin.
Possible return: Unknown

Sources close to the team say Alonso wants to integrate Mendy gradually once he’s fit, but there are whispers that Real Madrid may explore alternatives in the January transfer window if his recovery continues to stall.

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7. Antonio Rüdiger

Perhaps the most serious case of all, Antonio Rüdiger underwent hamstring surgery in September and faces several more weeks of rehabilitation. His absence has been felt deeply, as his defensive aggression and experience are irreplaceable.
Possible return: December 2025

The German international has been working tirelessly at Valdebebas, with regular physiotherapy sessions and light training expected to ramp up in November. The club hopes to have him back before the year ends, ideally in time for the festive fixture congestion.

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With so many players on the injury list, Xabi Alonso faces the difficult task of balancing fitness management with competitive demands. The Spanish manager, who has been widely praised for his calm leadership and tactical adaptability, continues to emphasize trust in youth and squad rotation.

Real Madrid’s medical department has been equally proactive, focusing on player conditioning and individualized recovery programs to prevent further setbacks. The club’s state-of-the-art facilities have been operating at full capacity, ensuring every injured player receives specialized care.

As the team gears up for a challenging few weeks, Real Madrid fans will take comfort in knowing that reinforcements are on the horizon. If Mbappé, Alexander-Arnold, and Carvajal all return within the expected timeframe, Alonso could soon field his strongest lineup yet — just in time for the season’s most defining matches.

Despite the setbacks, Los Blancos continue to show resilience, grinding out results and maintaining their status as one of Europe’s elite. For Alonso, it’s a test of depth and discipline — and if his squad emerges stronger from this injury storm, it could mark the beginning of a truly dominant era at the Bernabéu.