Real Madrid is starting to smile at just the right time. With less than two weeks to go before the much-anticipated Clásico against FC Barcelona, two key players in Xabi Alonso’s system — Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold — are making strong progress in their recoveries. Both are already training on the Valdebebas pitch, and the Spanish full-back has even started working with the ball again — a clear sign that his return is near.

Carvajal ahead of schedule

The Madrid-born defender picked up an injury during the derby on September 27 at the Metropolitano, and although his estimated recovery time was four weeks, Carvajal seems determined to beat the clock. His physical effort and commitment to the team bring him closer to being available for the showdown against the Blaugranas. If his progress continues, the right-back could return just in time to stop Raphinha or Ferran Torres down Barcelona’s left wing.

Meanwhile, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was injured on September 16 during the Champions League clash with Marseille, is also pushing hard to come back sooner than expected. Initial forecasts suggested a 10- to 12-week recovery, but the Englishman is making impressive progress and could become a last-minute option for the Madrid coach.

A depleted Barcelona

While Madrid is getting players back, Barcelona is going through a true injury crisis. In just two months of competition, the Catalan club has suffered ten injuries — seven of them muscle-related. Leading the list are Robert Lewandowski, sidelined with a hamstring tear, and Dani Olmo, recovering from a soleus injury. Both have been ruled out for El Clásico.

Other names like Raphinha, Fermín López, Alejandro Balde, and Frenkie de Jong have also spent time in the infirmary, reflecting the toll of a relentless schedule. The only positive news for the Blaugranas is the gradual return of Lamine Yamal, who is back training with the group and could feature against Girona before the big match.

The contrast between both teams is striking: while Xabi Alonso is regaining key pieces to strengthen his defense, Hansi Flick continues juggling absences. With less than two weeks to go before El Clásico, Real Madrid appears fitter and in better form, while Barcelona fights against time and injuries to avoid falling further behind.