Rüdiger almost out and Asencio in doubt: Real Madrid defense on alert for Clásico Supercopa By Thiago Lemos
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Real Madrid reaches the final of Supercopa of Espanha 2026 with serious concerns in defense to face Barcelona this Sunday, January 11, at King Abdullah Sports City, at Jeddah, at Antonio Rüdiger, who played with limitations on his left knee during the semi-final against Atlético of Raúl Asencio, also a starter in the 2-1 victory, left at the same time in pain and remains under constant medical evaluation.
Coach Xabi Alonso had to improvise on the defensive line at the end of the semi-final. The team ended with Federico Valverde as an improvised right-back, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Álvaro Carreras as central defenders, in addition to Ferland Mendy on the left. Apenas Mendy remained in his natural position during the decisive stretch of the match.
MAÑANA.pic.twitter.com/guRT7apskJ
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid)January 10, 2026
Current situation of defenders
Rüdiger carried out only light recovery activities on Friday. Sua attendance at Saturday’s training should be very limited, and the player’s feelings will define any remote chance of participation.
Asencio underwent post-game exams and remains monitored by the medical department. Embora some sources indicate that the problem may be less serious, the short time until the end increases uncertainty about his physical condition.
Expected return of Huijsen
Dean Huijsen emerges as the main hope to reinforce the starting defense. The Spaniard has been an important player this season, appearing in 18 of the 19 games played so far. Ele is recovering from a muscle problem and has not played since December 20, in the 2-0 victory over Sevilla.
Huijsen warmed up in the semi-final, but ended up being passed over for substitutions. Caso is recovered, he should return to the main team to give more solidity to the defensive sector.
Limited casting options
David Alaba has low numbers this season. The Austrian played just four games, averaging 36 minutes per game, and remains without ideal rhythm under the command of Alonso.
Other defenders traveled with the delegation to Arábia Saudita, but current physical conditioning restricts the available alternatives. The club does not foresee signings in the January market despite the difficulties.
Statements by Xabi Alonso after the semi-final
The coach commented on the forced changes in defense. Ele highlighted that Rüdiger played with knee limitations and pushed himself to the limit before asking for a replacement.
Alonso explained that Asencio also had difficulties during the match. The coach emphasized the need to renew energy in the defensive line and wait for developments until Sunday.
Defense context this season
Recurrent injuries affect Real Madrid’s defensive sector throughout the campaign. The club has already dealt with prolonged absences of other important names, which forces frequent improvisations.
The team is looking for the Supercopa title in another classic against Barcelona. The clash repeats recent tournament finals and requires maximum defensive adaptation to contain the opponent’s attack.
Mbappé recovered in time and traveled to Jeddah, reinforcing the offensive sector. Defense, however, remains the most critical point for Xabi Alonso in the final preparation.
