Real Madrid may have a problem this weekend as Antonio Rudiger might be the only available senior centre-back.
Nacho’s red card against Girona last week means he is suspended, and David Alaba’s fitness situation remains unclear.
Real Madrid will face Osasuna, having beaten Napoli 3-2 earlier this week, and may need to rotate elsewhere given the intensity of their Champions League trip, but could face an issue in defence.
Alaba to have a fitness test
Alaba was withdrawn against Las Palmas with a muscle injury, and AS have now reported that he was unable to complete a training session today.
The 32-year-old now faces a fitness test on Friday to determine if he will be available for Saturday’s clash, with Carlo Ancelotti seriously short of defensive options.
If he is available, he will likely be risked from the start in the hope that Real Madrid can see out the game to reach the international break with no more injuries, but if he fails his fitness test, Ancelotti will have to consider alternative options.
Replacing Alaba
One option to replace Alaba could be to play one of the fullbacks in the centre, with Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia both available and fresh after being benched against Napoli.
Eduardo Camavinga started at left-back, and given his already incredible versatility, he could be an option to move to the middle.
Aurelien Tchouameni may also be able to provide a physical presence if he drops into the back four, but given how important he currently is to the midfield, Ancelotti may not want to move him around.
Whichever option is thrown in will be a risk, and if Real Madrid drop points against Osasuna, then questions may be raised about why they chose not to bring in reinforcements when Eder Militao picked up a long term injury in the summer.