Vinicius Set for Comeback as Ancelotti Voices Concern Over Real Madrid’s Slump
MADRID, Dec 6 – Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that forward Vinicius Jr is set to make his return for the team’s Champions League clash against Atalanta next week, as the club looks to regain momentum in LaLiga against Girona on Saturday.
Vinicius has been sidelined since sustaining a muscle injury in his leg during Real Madrid’s 3-0 LaLiga win over Leganes on November 24. Since then, the team has struggled, losing two out of their last three matches, including defeats to Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao, though they managed a home win over Getafe.
“Vinicius’ return is great news for us, it gives us a boost,” Ancelotti said during a press conference on Friday. “He has recovered very well. He won’t be ready for tomorrow’s game, but he will be for the Champions League match.”
Alongside Vinicius, defender David Alaba was also seen in training with the team. However, Ancelotti explained that the Austrian will need more time to regain full fitness.
“Alaba has made good progress in training, but he still needs another month before he’s ready to play, likely in January,” Ancelotti added. “He will continue working individually through December and will gradually rejoin the team. But his target return is next year.”
Real Madrid, currently second in LaLiga and four points behind Barcelona with a game in hand, will face Girona this weekend. However, Ancelotti’s side has suffered five defeats in their last 11 matches across all competitions, including three losses in the Champions League. The defending champions are currently sitting 24th in their group with just six points, the last position that qualifies for the knockout stage playoffs.
“I’m concerned, and that’s normal, but it’s not the end of the world,” said Ancelotti. “We’re still in the fight on all fronts. We acknowledge our problems, but we need to stay optimistic. We have a quality squad, and although we haven’t played at our best, we’re confident that we will get there. My level of concern is moderate.”
Ancelotti also addressed the recent struggles of forward Kylian Mbappé, who has faced criticism following two missed penalties in a week, including one in the 2-1 loss to Bilbao on Wednesday. “He knows he hasn’t been at his best,” said Ancelotti. “We are supporting him. There are many others who also aren’t playing their best but aren’t aware of it. Kylian is aware, and he’s working hard to get back to his best.”
The Italian coach also praised Mbappé’s work rate, pointing out that he had recorded 600 meters at maximum intensity in the match against Getafe and 500 meters against Athletic Bilbao. “He’s improving his intensity, which is a positive sign. We need to support him, but that doesn’t mean he has to play every game.”
