Real Madrid heavyweight could make long-awaited comeback vs RB Salzburg – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid did not get off to the best of starts to the FIFA Club World Cup as they fell to a 1-1 draw to Al-Hilal in their first game of the event.

Their second game of the event will be this weekend against Pachuca in a game where Los Blancos will fancy their chances as serious favourites.

Given their situation on the table, they must win to have any hope of qualifying as the highest-placed team.

Kylian Mbappe remains a doubt for the game after he was even hospitalised for gastroenteritis earlier this week.

AS, however, relays information that will come as a massive boost to Xabi Alonso.

The return of the captain

As relayed by the Spanish outlet, Dani Carvajal is in a very advanced stage of his recovery and is expected to play a part for Real Madrid in the ongoing tournament. In fact, he could be ready as early as the third group stage game against RB Salzburg.

Likely to return next week. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

The veteran defender was initially injured in Real Madrid’s win over Villarreal in October last year and was initially expected to return only next season. His recovery, however, has progressed better than expected.

Carvajal is back and raring after recovering from his knee injury, although he did not train with the team today due to some discomfort in his neck.

As such, Xabi Alonso and Co. will look to exercise caution over his incorporation. After all, a relapse is the last thing the management will want.

It remains to be seen to what extent the new manager relies on Carvajal in the coming season, especially with Trent Alexander-Arnold now in the mix as a new option in the department.

For Carvajal, it will be a queer situation for it is the first-time he has a legitimate competitor for the right-back position.

Needless to say, he will be desperate to prove that he is far from done and being replaced at the club.