Real Madrid centre-back David Alaba has finally returned to team training after spending more than a year on the sidelines, and aims to be available for selection in January, according to Carlo Ancelotti in his press conference on Friday.
Alaba had an ACL rupture in December of last year, and has been recovering from it ever since.
He has been seen training alone, but Friday was the first time the Austrian was able to actually participate in team training in 355 days, and his return would be a welcome sight for [Real Madrid](https://www.managingmadrid.com) fans.
_Los Blancos_ have been struggling with injury issues — particularly in defence — since the start of the season, especially considering the thin depth chart.
There is still a while to go until he returns, but seeing him back is a positive sign in itself.
It would be nice to have an extra pair of legs provide some breathing space for Ancelotti and his staff, and could finally lead to some rest for Antonio Rudiger, who has already played 2200 minutes for club and country this season.