Two people hug in a locker room, one of them wearing a T-jersey with the name "Alaba", and there is an inset with a close-up of a person smiling in a stadium.
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David Alaba's First Words after Returning to Play, almost Breaks down in Tears

David Alaba played an official game again after 399 days of hiatus

David Alaba completed his long-awaited return with Real Madrid in the game against UD Las Palmas. The Austrian appeared on the field 399 days after suffering a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

At the end of the game, David Alaba received congratulations from the president and his teammates in the changing room. Later, he was interviewed by Real Madrid TV, where he shared his impressions about his return to the field.

Two people talking in a sports locker room with t-jerseys hanging in the background.
David Alaba talks with Florentino Pérez after the match against UD Las Palmas. | Real Madrid Confidencial

David Alaba, very emotional after his return

"I'm very happy. It's a special day for me. I thank the fans", explained David Alaba to the microphone of Real Madrid TV.

"I've waited a long time for this moment because last year was very tough and long. I've worked very hard every day waiting for this moment. Returning home has been very nice", he commented.

"The team has helped me a lot and without my teammates, the medical staff, the physios, and the rehab specialists it would've been harder. They've helped me a lot every day working very hard daily", stated David Alaba himself.

About the match, David Alaba commented that "We played very well. For me, the match was top and we deserved the victory". The defender played a little over fifteen minutes and showed quite a bit of confidence, although he needs to keep progressing.

Reappears almost 400 days later

David Alaba was injured on December 17, 2023, during the match against Villarreal CF at Santiago Bernabéu. Just two days later, he underwent surgery and, since then, began a long recovery process.

Two soccer players hug in a locker room while another player smiles and gives a thumbs up in the background.
David Alaba hugs Kylian Mbappé in the locker room. | Real Madrid Confidencial
 

Finally, the player has been able to enjoy elite soccer today after playing again against UD Las Palmas. Without a doubt, this confirms one of the best pieces of news for Real Madrid this season.

Ancelotti, who's been having quite a few problems in defense, will be able to count on the player for the second half of the season. It'll take some time for David Alaba to reach the highest competitive level, but the Italian can be very happy about his return.

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