Real Madrid centre-back David Alaba sustained a knee injury in the first half of his side's game against Villarreal on Sunday evening.
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Went down after twisting his knee without contactWas unable to put weight on injured legEder Militao already out for the season with ACL tearWHAT HAPPENED?
The centre-back twisted his knee awkwardly in the turf in the first half of Madrid's La Liga clash with Villarreal. After spending two minutes down on the ground clutching his left knee, he was helped off the field.
Advertisement(C)Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Alaba's injury — if it is as serious as it appeared — leaves Madrid with only two fit senior centre-backs. Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has already deputised in central defence this year, meaning manager Carlo Ancelotti has a lot to ponder.
DID YOU KNOW?
Madrid have suffered a handful of knee injuries already this season. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois tore his ACL the week before the La Liga opener. Militao lasted less than an hour of Los Blancos' first game before sustaining an ACL injury of his own. Eduardo Camavinga is out until the new year after tearing a knee ligament on France duty.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR ALABA?
The defender will likely need tests before determining the severity of his injury. Serious ligament damage would certainly rule him out for the season.