It hasn’t been a smooth ride for Real Madrid in recent days, with back-to-back injury concerns threatening to derail their momentum.
Just when fans were getting excited about the team’s progress, a couple of key players have hit setbacks at the worst possible time.
Trent Alexander-Arnold Sidelined with Muscle Pain
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who only joined Real Madrid from Liverpool last month, is now facing uncertainty after picking up a muscle issue in his right leg during training.
The injury struck earlier this week, just days before Madrid’s high-profile Club World Cup semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Unfortunately for Madrid, Trent wasn’t fit enough to take part in that match — and his absence was felt.
PSG dominated the game, thrashing Los Blancos 4–0 in New Jersey.
Before the loss, head coach Xabi Alonso shared a brief update: “He felt something.
A small discomfort, but it was enough to keep him out.
It’s a blow, of course — but these things happen in football.
We have to handle it and move forward.”
Alexander-Arnold had featured in all five of Madrid’s previous matches in the tournament, quickly becoming a key figure since his transfer from Anfield in early June.
He’s now expected to undergo medical tests to determine how serious the injury is.
Young Star Endrick Suffers a Setback in Recovery
Meanwhile, another blow for Madrid came in the form of a fresh setback for Brazilian teen sensation Endrick.
The 18-year-old has been managing a hamstring issue since May, originally injuring it during a La Liga clash against Sevilla.
Although he wasn’t expected to play in the Club World Cup, Endrick had remained close to the squad — initially staying in Spain to focus on rehab before traveling to Miami to be near his teammates.
There was a glimmer of hope earlier this week when he resumed light training, but that optimism was short-lived.
He aggravated the injury again on Monday, and now, according to The Athletic, he’s expected to be sidelined for several more weeks.
Madrid Close in on Deal to Bring Back Alvaro Carreras
In more positive news for Real fans, the club appears to be wrapping up a deal for Spanish left-back Alvaro Carreras.
The 22-year-old, who came through Real’s youth system before moving to Manchester United in 2020, is reportedly close to sealing a return to the Bernabéu.
Carreras — previously known by his full name, Alvaro Fernandez Carreras — never made a senior appearance for United but gained experience on loan with Preston, Granada, and most recently Benfica.
According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Madrid and Benfica have reached an agreement worth €50 million (£43 million).
Carreras’ return would bolster Madrid’s left-back options and mark a homecoming for the promising defender.
What’s Next for Madrid?
With Trent and Endrick both dealing with injuries and the team licking their wounds after a heavy semi-final defeat, Madrid’s coaching staff will have plenty to manage in the coming days.
Fans will be hoping for quick recoveries, especially with the Club World Cup wrapping up and pre-season preparations already taking shape.
And if the Carreras deal goes through, it might be just the boost the squad needs heading into the new campaign.