Arnold's Injury Pushes Madrid's Right-Back Puzzle Through 2025

Injury update and timeline

A Spanish newspaper report said Trent Alexander-Arnold's injury appears complex and could keep him sidelined for a long spell, after he picked up the problem during his side's 3-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao, on Wednesday night at San Mames, in La Liga matchday 19.

According to the renowned Spanish program 'El Chiringuito', it is expected Arnold will miss any further game until the end of 2025, given early medical estimates that point to a long recovery before returning to the pitch.

This setback comes just days after he had recovered from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for almost a month, amid criticism of his recent performances.

Real Madrid are clearly short at right-back, especially with Dani Carvajal's continued absence, having missed 81 matches since last season due to a long run of injuries.

Madrid's defensive conundrum and Camavinga status

Manager Xabi Alonso finds himself facing a fresh defensive dilemma ahead of matches against Celta Vigo on December 7 and Manchester City on December 10, with the possibility of resorting to Asensio or Fede Valverde as makeshift right-backs.

Meanwhile, the same report notes a note of optimism within Real Madrid about Camavinga's condition, as his ankle injury seems less serious than feared, with expectations of a quick improvement and a return to training soon.

Punchline: If injuries were players, Arnold would be the club mascot—permanently on loan to the calendar.

Punchline: Madrid's defensive plan is a revolving door—every week a new right-back option walks in, and the ball still finds the net first.