David Alaba is "very confident" for ÖFB comeback in Nations League Playoff
It will be David Alaba's first international match after a 16-month break due to a severe knee injury. "I really trust myself to do a lot already," said the 32-year-old on Wednesday. "The development is clearly trending upwards."
Two Appearances by David Alaba Over 90 Minutes in Nations League Playoff Unlikely
Alaba has played 105 international matches for Austria. His 106th will also be special for the ÖFB captain. "After such a long time, it's not so easy to get back into the rhythm. But I believe that the path so far has been really very positive," explained Alaba. "I feel really good and have been able to make my steps forward." Are two appearances over 90 minutes against the Serbs on Thursday in Vienna and on Sunday in Belgrade realistic? "Realistic yes. Whether it makes sense is another matter."
Team coach Ralf Rangnick wants to handle his top star with care. "I am super happy that David is available again," emphasized the German. "David is a very, very special player, the likes of which you don't see too often. We are very happy that he is back." The ÖFB coach also praised Real Madrid's approach. The club had gradually reintroduced Alaba after his comeback. "They did a great job in tuning, in development - also regarding the playing times."
Alaba stood on the field for the first time in a competitive match for Real on January 19 after a 13-month injury break. He has made five short appearances so far, and he started three times in the league. In February, adductor problems set him back. "That David now wants to play more quickly is natural," said Rangnick. "We now have to look together at what really makes sense, what playing time is possible without risking a subsequent injury at some point."
Long-term Future of David Alaba Uncertain
At the European Championship in early summer, Alaba was present as a "Non-playing Captain." With him as a player, there is a different energy in the team, explained teammate Nicolas Seiwald at the beginning of the week. Alaba always wants to win, even in small games during training, revealed Rangnick. "That is what distinguishes him, this ambition. It also transfers to the team." He simply tries to be himself and remain so, and to help the team in all areas, Alaba responded. Every player is very happy to come to the national team. "We are like a family."
The situation at Real seems a bit more complicated. Last week, Alaba did not play in either the Champions League or the league. His contract runs until the summer of 2026. The ÖFB star did not really want to comment on his future in Vienna - not even on a possible return to Wiener Austria at the end of his career. "I still have a contract in Madrid and still have a lot planned in my career," explained Alaba. "Where my path will lead in a few years, that remains to be seen."
Footballer of the Year Trophy Before Nations League Playoff to Baumgartner
As a title collector, few footballers worldwide can match Alaba. Austria's Footballer of the Year has already been the Viennese ten times. Last year, ÖFB teammate Christoph Baumgartner received the award for the first time. The RB Leipzig player will receive the trophy on Thursday ahead of the international match against Serbia. Immediately before kickoff, a minute of silence is also planned for the former ÖFB team coach Dietmar Constantini, who passed away in December at the age of 69.
(APA/Red)
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