David Alaba’s Euro 2024 dream hangs in the balance

A cloud of uncertainty hovers over David Alaba’s participation in Euro 2024, with Ralf Rangnick, the Austrian national team coach, cautiously hopeful about the star defender’s recovery.

The setback occurred around five weeks ago during a crucial match against Villarreal, sparking concerns about Alaba’s readiness for the upcoming tournament in Germany.

In a recent update from the World Cup ski races in Kitzbühel (via MD), Rangnick shared insights from a conversation with Alaba, revealing the defender’s positive and confident demeanor over the phone.

However, the coach stressed the need for caution, stating that a final decision on Alaba’s Euro 2024 involvement would be based on his recovery progress closer to the tournament.

The injury unfolded during the first half of the Real Madrid versus Villarreal encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu, a match Madrid convincingly won with a 4-1 scoreline.

Alaba, a key figure in the team’s defense, suffered a ligament injury around mid-December, leaving both Real Madrid and the Austrian national team grappling with his absence.

With Euro 2024 set to unfold from June 14 to July 14, Alaba faces a formidable challenge in returning to full fitness.

The recovery journey has included medical evaluations, with a recent examination of his knee in Innsbruck and subsequent discussions with Rangnick in Kitzbühel.

“I believe he’s on the right path,” cautiously remarked Rangnick, highlighting the delicate balance Alaba must strike in regaining fitness ahead of the prestigious tournament.

The football community eagerly awaits updates on Alaba’s condition as Euro 2024 draws near.

The defender’s resilience and determination will be pivotal in determining whether he can overcome this setback and make a meaningful contribution to Austria’s campaign in the European championship.