Real Madrid's injury crisis: Latest updates on Vinícius Júnior, Courtois and other key players

Real Madrid is currently grappling with a wave of injuries affecting several key players, which could impact the team’s performance in both domestic and international competitions. From ligament tears to hamstring strains, these injuries pose a challenge for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad as they navigate a packed schedule. Here’s a breakdown of the injured players, the nature of their setbacks, and their expected return dates.

Dani Carvajal: ACL, LCL, and Popliteal Tendon Injury

In a severe case, right-back Dani Carvajal has sustained a combination of injuries—tears to his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and popliteal tendon. These injuries have sidelined him for the foreseeable future, with a potential return expected no sooner than June 30, 2025.

This lengthy absence will leave a major void in Real Madrid’s right flank, both defensively and offensively. Carvajal has been a mainstay in the team, and his dynamic overlaps, coupled with solid defensive work, will be sorely missed.

David Alaba: Cruciate Ligament Tear

The versatile defender David Alaba from Real Madrid tore his cruciate ligaments. This kind of injury normally takes a long time in recovery. Usually, such kinds of injury may require 6-9 months rehabilitation, which depends on the extent of the injury.

Since Alaba has pulled up lame, there remains a missing link amongst the defenders, especially against some important games when top opposition comes into play. Thankfully, he is set to return on Nov. 1 , which should get him back into action for the latter parts of the season. The Madridistas will be praying for a quick recovery given that his leadership and flexibility in defence will be instrumental in their title challenge.

Brahim Díaz: Hamstring Injury

Brahim Díaz is an attacking midfielder who has picked up a hamstring injury. These muscle strains can easily go into recurrence, which may take about 6 to 8 weeks for rehabilitation. He is expected to return on Dec. 14, providing him ample time before the winter fixtures. His creativity and dribbling skills will be important for Real Madrid's attacking options once he is fit again.

Dani Ceballos: Ankle Sprain

Dani Ceballos is recovering from an ankle sprain, a relatively minor injury compared to others. However, ankle sprains can still limit mobility and cause pain if not properly healed. Ceballos, known for his midfield dynamism, is expected to return on Nov. 4, just in time to contribute to the midfield rotation as Real Madrid gears up for crucial league and Champions League fixtures.

Thibaut Courtois: Adductor Tear

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suffered an adductor tear on Sept. 30, an injury whose length of rehab can differ greatly depending on the seriousness of said injury. For now, there isn't a set date for Courtois to return, something of huge concern for Real Madrid. The Belgian shot-stopper has been such an important presence in goal for Los Blancos, and with him out, that's something left vulnerable going into the next games.

Vinícius Júnior: Cervical Spine Injury

Last but not least, Vinícius Júnior suffered a cervical spine injury after the game against Villareal. The date of return remains unknown, as any kind of spine injury is always under close consideration to rule out further complications. With his explosive pace and goal-scoring ability, he had become an indispensable part of the attack machinery of the team, and his absence will be felt as Real Madrid tries to maintain the output in the offense.

Real Madrid is facing a tough period with multiple key players sidelined due to serious injuries. While some players are expected to return soon, such as Alaba and Ceballos, others like Carvajal will be out for the long term. The unknown return dates for Courtois and Vinícius Júnior add further uncertainty. As the club manages these injuries, the depth of their squad will be tested in the coming months.