Conflicting reports over Alaba’s decision to join Austria camp

Nigeria-born Austrian superstar David Alaba has been reported to have left for Austria national team without being medically cleared.

His physical condition meant he wasn’t fit for the Real Madrid squad for last Sunday’s Clásico, but that hasn’t affected Ralf Rangkick’s decision to call him up.

The Austria coach hinted a few days ago that the idea to travel to be with his teammates came from Alaba himself. “He’s a great example of a captain,” said Rangnick, who had to admit that the Madrid centre-back is still travelling despite not being fully fit. “It’s a race against the clock for him,” he added.

Alaba has left Madrid without knowing whether he will be able to play in the two home matches in Group F of the Euro 2024 qualifiers. Austria will play Azerbaijan in Linz and then Estonia.

There was much surprise among Real Madrid supporters when it was revealed that David Alaba had been named in Austria’s squad for their upcoming Euro 2024 qualification matches against Azerbaijan and Estonia.

However, it has been revealed by Diario AS that Real Madrid’s doctors encouraged Alaba to join up with Austria. They feel that it would be beneficial for him to “get into a rhythm”, having not played in over four weeks.

The hope for Real Madrid is that Alaba will avoid aggravating the injury whilst on international duty, while also increasing his match sharpness ahead of the crucial season run-in.