Although the night at San Mamés seemed like one of Real Madrid’s most perfect nights of the season, the euphoria did not last long at the club. After a stunning victory at one of Spain’s toughest stadiums, unusual tension emerged behind the scenes, worrying the Bernabéu management, particularly Florentino Pérez, who received unexpected news after the final whistle.
What could possibly spoil such a perfect night, one in which Real Madrid returned with a crucial win and a strong team performance? And why did the joy turn into palpable unease within the club’s decision-making room?
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The details emerged just minutes after the final whistle. Pérez was informed that the injuries sustained by Trent Alexander-Arnold and Eduardo Camavinga during the match appeared more serious than initially thought. While final tests were still pending, preliminary indications suggested the players would be sidelined for several matches, possibly until the end of the year.
Trent Alexander-Arnold was forced to leave the pitch at the start of the second half after delivering his best performance since joining Real Madrid. He was a key figure in the attacks, setting up Mbappé’s opening goal, and also provided solid defensive work despite facing Nico Williams. However, the injury halted his progress at a moment when he was performing at his peak, leaving Xabi Alonso with difficult decisions regarding his defensive options.
With Dani Carvajal already sidelined, the choices will likely be limited to reserve players or a complete tactical adjustment. Alonso might be forced to use Marco Asensio on the right flank, or temporarily move Ernesto Valverde into defensive duties, while Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger will likely shoulder additional responsibilities in the back line.
Camavinga’s injury presents a new challenge in midfield, where Arda Güler and Dani Ceballos will likely be pushed into the starting lineup, or a 4-3-3 system with Mastanuño starting may be necessary to compensate for the numerous absences.
Thus, a great victory turned into a source of concern within Real Madrid… The problem was not the result, but the price that came with it.
