Real Madrid’s Champions League preparations have taken a major hit with several key defenders ruled out ahead of their meeting with Kairat Almaty — www.isagoal.com reports.
Xabi Alonso’s men are determined to build on their opening win against Marseille, but his squad looks stretched after more injuries struck in the past few days.
According to the club, Dani Carvajal has suffered a calf issue that will sideline him for four to five weeks, leaving Alonso without his captain.
Adding to the concerns, Eder Militao will not make the trip after limping off during the Madrid derby, where he picked up an ankle knock stopping Alexander Sorloth.
Although the injury is not serious, staff agreed he should be rested, further thinning Real Madrid’s already fragile defensive options.
The absence of Militao, along with Antonio Rudiger, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ferland Mendy, leaves Alonso scrambling to reorganize his backline.
Young defenders Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio are set to form the heart of defence, a pairing that forces tactical reshuffles elsewhere in the squad.
With Asencio unable to cover right-back, Federico Valverde is tipped to drop into that role, shifting midfield responsibilities onto others.
This opens the door for Eduardo Camavinga or Dani Ceballos to slot into midfield, especially if Aurelien Tchouameni is rotated for rest.
Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler remain strong contenders to keep their places, giving Alonso some attacking stability despite defensive chaos.
This article was updated 41 minutes ago
