"Last year was really long and hard for me"

Real Madrid's Austrian defender David Alaba, who returned to action 399 days after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, highlighted the feeling of happiness that came over him when he took the field after a “very hard” year.

The Austrian defender, who received a standing ovation from the Bernabeu crowd, said he was “very happy” to be able to experience “a very special day” on Sunday, when he took part in the match against UD Las Palmas (4-1).

“Very happy. It's a special day for me. I’d like to thank the fans. I’ve waited a long time for this moment because last year was really long and hard. I’ve worked so hard every day waiting for this moment. Making my comeback at home was wonderful,” he said on ‘Real Madrid TV’.

Alaba was also “very happy” with the victory after a match in which the team "played very well” and wanted to thank all those who have helped him in his recovery to return to play football. “The team’s helped me a lot and without my teammates, the medical staff, the physios and the rehabilitation team it would’ve been harder. They’ve helped me a lot every day working very hard,” he said.

 

January 19, 2025