Barcelona have received a huge boost ahead of the El Clasico as a key Real Madrid summer signing is set to miss the clash due to injury.
Real Madrid, already grappling with the absence of a key central defender for the next three months, has now been dealt another blow with a major summer signing sidelined by injury.
This development weakens the reigning La Liga champions’ backline, offering Barcelona a prime opportunity to capitalize on their pursuit of early-season supremacy in this historic rivalry.
The injured player is Trent Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid’s high-profile right-back acquired from Liverpool in June 2025.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the 26-year-old England international suffered a hamstring injury in his left thigh during Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League opener against Olympique de Marseille on September 16.
The injury, sustained just minutes into the match, forced his immediate withdrawal and is expected to keep him out for six to eight weeks, making his participation in the upcoming El Clasico highly unlikely.
Alexander-Arnold’s absence is a significant setback for Real Madrid, as the former Liverpool star was expected to bring flair and precision to their defense ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.
His adaptation to Spanish football has been challenging, and this injury further clouds his anticipated Clasico debut.
With another key defender already ruled out, Real Madrid’s defensive unit faces a shortage of experience and depth against a potent Barcelona attack.
For Barcelona, this news bolsters their prospects as they aim to assert dominance in the first of two league clashes with their rivals.
Manager Hansi Flick will look to exploit Real Madrid’s vulnerabilities, particularly on the right flank, where Alexander-Arnold’s absence leaves a gap.
As the countdown to October 26 continues, Barcelona fans will be optimistic that their team can seize this advantage and deliver a statement victory at the Bernabeu.
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