Real Madrid face an anxious wait over Dean Huijsen’s fitness ahead of the much-anticipated El Clasico against Barcelona, according to the AS.
The young defender picked up a micro-tear in his left soleus muscle during the victory over Villarreal on October 4, ending a near-perfect run of availability in which he had played almost every minute across La Liga and the Champions League.
That was first seen as a minor muscle overload has developed into a tense recovery race.
The club had initially estimated a two-week layoff but with only eleven days left before the trip to Barcelona that optimism has turned into caution.
Madrid have reportedly ruled him out of the upcoming Getafe match on October 19, and while there is still hope he might return for Barcelona, it could pose an additional risk with a muscle injury known for its relapse potential.
Real Madrid readies plan b
Reportedly, should Huijsen fail to prove his fitness in time, Xabi Alonso is expected to turn to Asencio to partner Eder Militao in central defense with the Spaniard currently ahead of David Alaba in the selection order.
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Huijsen’s absence would be significant for Real Madrid, as he has made twelve appearances this season, including seven in La Liga and two in the Champions League, totaling 751 minutes.