Key Takeaways:
- Recent updates have revealed that Dani Carvajal’s calf injury recovery period has been shortened from four weeks to approximately three weeks
- Xabi Alonso faces ongoing challenges at right-back, with both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Carvajal sidelined
- Barcelona continue to deal with several injuries, likely missing Joan Garcia, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Gavi, although Fermin Lopez and Raphinha could still recover in time for the fixture
Real Madrid Receive Positive Injury News Ahead of Barcelona Showdown
Both Real Madrid and Barcelona have faced a raft of injuries in the build-up to the upcoming El Clasico encounter. The recovery prospects of key players have been closely monitored, with the availability of these stars crucial for both sides.
Recent reports have brought a significant lift for Los Blancos, as Dani Carvajal’s calf issue is now said to require only three weeks for recovery, as opposed to the initial four-week prognosis. This development greatly enhances Carvajal’s chances of featuring against Barcelona in what is a vital fixture at the Santiago Bernabeu.
🚨 NEW: Carvajal aims to RETURN for El Clásico.
The club say Dani is 'crazy' about playing the Clásico. @diarioas pic.twitter.com/RFtgOEjPa4
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) October 2, 2025
Carvajal’s Determination and Likely Timetable
According to sources at Valdebebas, Carvajal is making extensive efforts to accelerate his rehabilitation, with the firm aim of being available for El Clasico. The word from within the club suggests it is deemed ‘practically certain’ that he will return ahead of schedule. However, it is not expected that Carvajal will feature in Real Madrid’s fixtures against Getafe or Juventus prior to the Barcelona match.
Right-Back Crisis Contingency Plans for Xabi Alonso
With Trent Alexander-Arnold also recovering from injury and not anticipated to return before November, Xabi Alonso has been without a natural right-back to deploy in recent matches. In Carvajal’s absence, Alonso has had to consider using Eder Militao or Raul Asencio in the defensive role. The possibility of moving Fede Valverde to right-back has also been weighed, potentially offering a more seasoned solution.
Given Valverde’s current situation and associated media speculation, Carvajal’s timely return may prevent further selection dilemmas for Alonso as the season’s marquee fixture draws closer.
Barcelona Continue to Manage Player Absences
Barcelona are also dealing with a depleted squad, with Joan Garcia, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Gavi likely to be unavailable for the clash. However, there remains optimism that Fermin Lopez and Raphinha could recover in time to bolster the Catalans’ ranks.
| Player | Club | Injury | Expected Return | El Clasico Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dani Carvajal | Real Madrid | Calf | ~3 weeks | Expected |
| Trent Alexander-Arnold | Real Madrid | Undisclosed | November or later | Unavailable |
| Joan Garcia | Barcelona | Undisclosed | Unknown | Unlikely |
| Marc-Andre ter Stegen | Barcelona | Undisclosed | Unknown | Unlikely |
| Gavi | Barcelona | Undisclosed | Unknown | Unlikely |
| Fermin Lopez | Barcelona | Undisclosed | Possible return before El Clasico | Potential |
| Raphinha | Barcelona | Undisclosed | Possible return before El Clasico | Potential |
