Real Madrid, a club steeped in tradition and success, is facing a defensive conundrum that could shape the trajectory of their season. The Spanish giants have been rocked by a double blow at right-back, with both Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold sidelined by injuries at a critical juncture. With a crucial run of fixtures on the horizon—including Champions League ties and high-stakes domestic battles—manager Xabi Alonso must now improvise to fill the gaping void on the right side of defense.
The alarm bells started ringing on September 27, 2025, during the heated Madrid derby. Dani Carvajal, a stalwart in Real’s backline, suffered a calf injury and was forced off around the hour mark. Medical tests later confirmed the worst: an injury to the soleus muscle in his right leg, ruling him out for approximately four weeks. The club’s official statement read, “Following tests carried out today on Dani Carvajal by Real Madrid's medical department, the player has been diagnosed with an injury to the soleus muscle in his right leg. His progress will be monitored.”
Compounding the crisis, Carvajal is also suspended for the upcoming Champions League clash at Anfield, after receiving a red card in the 2-1 victory over Marseille. UEFA could even extend his ban, depending on their review of the off-the-ball incident that led to his dismissal. This means that, even if his recovery goes smoothly, Carvajal’s return to the pitch could be delayed further by disciplinary action.
As if that weren’t enough, Real Madrid’s marquee summer signing, Trent Alexander-Arnold, is also out of action. The England international, who made his name at Liverpool, is recovering from a left hamstring injury that will keep him sidelined for up to eight weeks. Alexander-Arnold will miss key fixtures against Kairat Almaty, Villarreal, Juventus, and Barcelona as the club’s medical staff cautiously manage his rehabilitation. But there’s a glimmer of hope: Real Madrid expects him to return in November, just in time for a blockbuster Champions League reunion with Liverpool at Anfield on November 4, 2025.
With both first-choice right-backs unavailable, Xabi Alonso finds himself forced to shuffle his deck. The search for a stopgap solution has become urgent, especially with the team’s recent 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid exposing defensive frailties. Alonso didn’t mince words after the derby loss, stating, “It was a bad game, we didn't play well either collectively or under pressure, we weren't at the level we should have been. We're in a building phase, today is our first defeat, and we have to draw conclusions from what happened, but there are no excuses, we're hurt, it's a derby, and a deserved defeat. We weren't on our game, we were lacking a gear, and the defeat hurts.”
So, who can step up and fill the void at right-back? Real Madrid’s depth and versatility might just be their saving grace. Several names have emerged as potential candidates to slot into the role until Carvajal or Alexander-Arnold return.
Álvaro Odriozola is perhaps the most natural fit. A product of Real Madrid’s youth academy, Odriozola has previously impressed in the first team, and his recent loan spell at Fiorentina saw him regain form and confidence. Known for his pace and precise crossing, Odriozola’s familiarity with Real’s system could prove invaluable. His ability to make dynamic runs and deliver key assists makes him a prime candidate for the role.
Ferland Mendy, although primarily a left-back, has the defensive acumen and tactical awareness to adapt to the right side if needed. His speed and game-reading ability were honed during his time at Lyon, and his versatility could allow Real Madrid to maintain their attacking width while shoring up the defense. Deploying Mendy at right-back would require a tactical tweak, but it’s an option Alonso is reportedly considering.
Another seasoned campaigner, David Alaba, brings leadership and experience to the table. The Austrian international is renowned for his flexibility, having played across the backline and in midfield throughout his career at Bayern Munich and Madrid. Alaba’s tactical intelligence, calm under pressure, and ability to contribute offensively—especially with his passing range and set-piece skills—make him a strong contender to fill in on the right.
Eder Militão is typically deployed as a central defender, but his athleticism and technical prowess have seen him fill in at right-back on occasion. Militão’s speed and strength allow him to match up well against quick wingers, and his experience in intercepting passes and making crucial tackles could help Real Madrid maintain defensive solidity while still offering an attacking threat down the flank.
Finally, Jesús Vallejo represents both a short-term solution and a potential investment for the future. The young Spaniard, who has gained experience on loan in various leagues, is eager to prove his worth. Vallejo’s adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges could make him a valuable utility player during this injury crisis.
With so many moving parts, Real Madrid’s ability to adapt will be tested in the weeks ahead. The right-back position in modern football is more than just a defensive role; it’s a crucial link in both attack and defense. The absence of Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold strips the team of experience, creativity, and attacking thrust from the flanks—qualities that could be sorely missed in tight games.
Federico Valverde, primarily a midfielder, is also expected to fill in at right-back for some fixtures, adding yet another twist to Alonso’s tactical puzzle. The club’s squad depth offers other defensive options as well, including Raul Asencio, Alvaro Carreras, Fran Garcia, and Dean Huijsen, all of whom could be called upon as Real Madrid navigates this challenging period.
The looming Champions League trips—first to Kazakhstan to face Kairat Almaty, then to Anfield for the Liverpool showdown—will demand resilience and flexibility from the squad. Real Madrid’s rivals are circling, with Barcelona poised to leapfrog them in La Liga if results falter. Every decision Alonso makes could have a ripple effect on the club’s domestic and European ambitions.
As the season unfolds, the spotlight will remain fixed on Real Madrid’s right-back dilemma. Will one of the stand-ins rise to the occasion and stake a claim for a starting spot? Or will the team simply have to weather the storm until their stars return to full fitness? One thing’s for sure: the coming weeks promise drama, uncertainty, and the kind of intrigue that only football’s biggest clubs can deliver.
For now, fans can only watch and wonder how Xabi Alonso will steer Los Blancos through this defensive storm. The solutions may not be perfect, but Madrid’s history is defined by overcoming adversity—and this is just the latest test of their mettle.
