Just three days before the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona, Real Madrid is sounding the alarms. David Alaba and Eduardo Camavinga ended the match against Getafe with injuries, and their presence in the big cup event is seriously compromised.
Real Madrid Left Without Fullbacks
Real Madrid could be left without fullbacks. To the long-term absence of Carvajal and Mendy, Alaba and Camavinga are added, leaving the roster of fullbacks at two players, which could be three.
Two if considering pure fullbacks: Lucas Vázquez and Fran García. Three if we add Fede Valverde, who can play in any position.
In the case of the Austrian center-back, Alaba suffers from muscle discomfort in his left leg, the same one in which he had a severe cruciate ligament injury. Although the club hasn't issued an official medical report, the player ended with signs of pain and was substituted as a preventive measure. His participation in the final depends on his progress in the coming hours.
Even more concerning is Camavinga, who was substituted in the 41st minute with clear signs of pain after a sprint. Initial examinations point to a possible adductor tear. If confirmed, the Frenchman would be completely ruled out for the match against Barça.
The situation is critical for Carlo Ancelotti. With Mendy lacking competitive rhythm, Camavinga out, and Alaba in doubt, the only available left-back would be Fran García, whose experience in big events generates uncertainty in Valdebebas.
The Italian coach will have to improvise and adjust his strategy with what he has available.
Real Madrid finds itself besieged by injuries at the worst possible moment. Barcelona, arriving with better physical conditions, is already taking note of a situation that could affect the Copa final.
The Crowd Shouted "Ceballos, Die"
When Dani Ceballos took to the field, the Getafe crowd targeted him with insults and slurs.
Then a chant was heard throughout the Getafe Coliseum: "Ceballos, die." The shouts were clearly heard, and the referee will have noted them in the match report.
The animosity that Ceballos generates in a sector of the Getafe crowd is motivated by a match years ago between Getafe and Betis with survival as the goal. On that occasion, Ceballos was not very fortunate in his post-match statements, and today they reminded him of it.