Real Madrid suffer defensive setback ahead of Real Betis clash
Real Madrid will be under pressure to secure all three points against Real Betis on Sunday as they attempt to keep pace with Barcelona in the La Liga title race. However, preparations for the Santiago Bernabéu encounter have been complicated by another defensive injury.
Head coach Xabi Alonso has already been dealing with several absences in recent matches, particularly in defence, and his options have now been further reduced. While the official matchday squad has yet to be announced, it has been confirmed that Dean Huijsen will not be available for the fixture.
Doubts over Huijsen’s fitness were raised during Saturday’s press conference, and reports have since confirmed that the defender failed to recover in time. He is suffering from a muscle overload, and the decision has been taken not to risk him against Betis.
His absence leaves Real Madrid without two of their preferred centre-backs, with Éder Militão still sidelined through injury. There is some encouragement, however, as David Alaba could return after overcoming his own fitness problems. Even so, Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asencio are expected to start together in central defence.
Spanish Super Cup availability in doubt
Huijsen’s condition has also cast uncertainty over his availability for the upcoming Spanish Super Cup. Real Madrid are due to travel to Saudi Arabia next week, where they will face city rivals Atlético Madrid in the semi-final.
At present, there is no confirmation on whether the 20-year-old will be fit in time for the trip. Despite facing criticism over his recent performances, Huijsen has been a regular starter when Militão has been unavailable, making his recovery a priority for Alonso.
The next few days will be crucial in determining whether Huijsen can return in time for the Super Cup, as Real Madrid continue to manage their injury concerns at a decisive stage of the season.