The match against Espanyol left concerning news for Real Madrid. Antonio Rüdiger, the only regular center-back in the line-up, suffered an injury that will sideline him for several weeks. The setback comes at the worst time, when the team is competing for the most important titles of the season.
Carlo Ancelotti had assured days earlier that David Alaba was ready to return, but when Rüdiger got injured, the Austrian didn't even warm up. This absence has raised doubts about his physical condition and suggests that he is not yet fully recovered. The risk of relapse is real, and the coaching staff doesn't want to rush his return.
Raúl Asencio, the only reliable option
With Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal, and Antonio Rüdiger also out of action, the defensive outlook is critical. At this moment, Raúl Asencio is the only center-back who is fit to play without restrictions. The young player has shown personality when needed, but facing the final stretch of the season with so few options is a serious problem.
In this situation, Ancelotti and his coaching staff are looking for alternatives. The solution is not simple, but an unexpected option has started to gain traction in recent hours. A name that seemed forgotten in the white squad could reappear when most needed.
Jesús Vallejo enters the scene
Jesús Vallejo, who has barely had a role in recent years, is back on the coaching staff's radar. His contract with Real Madrid ends in June, and until recently, everything pointed to him leaving without much notice. However, the need for center-backs could give him an unexpected opportunity.
Throughout his career, Vallejo has faced various circumstances and loans that have hindered his progress. Even so, he remains a valid option when order and experience are required in the defense. With few players available, Ancelotti might trust him to alleviate the defensive crisis.
Jesús Vallejo, Ancelotti's last hope
Although he wasn't in the initial plans, Jesús Vallejo could end up playing a key role in the season. Raúl Asencio needs a partner in defense, and given the lack of alternatives, the former Granada player could be the emergency solution.
Ancelotti will have to decide whether to give him minutes or look for another alternative within the scheme. The reality is that Real Madrid faces a challenging situation without natural defenders available. The only certainty is that any option, no matter how unexpected, could make a difference in this final stretch of the season.