David Alaba addresses Real Madrid and fans in heartfelt message for the first time after ACL injury

David Alaba didn't exactly finish the year 2023 on a high note as he suffered an ACL rupture earlier in December. The Austrian defender had to undergo the knee surgery and will spend the next five to six months on the sidelines, recovering.

The 31-year-old took to his social media to send a special message to Real Madrid and their fans.

"It’s taken me a while to process what happened last week. I’ve faced a few challenges in my career, but this may be one of my toughest ones yet. "However, I will not only accept this challenge, but I will face it head on and get to the top of that mountain. "Thank you to my teammates, Real Madrid, friends, family and everyone for your love and support," the message reads.

Real Madrid's squad depth in defence after Alaba injury shown in lineup