David Alaba will be at Euro 2024 with his country but he won’t be setting foot on the pitch.
The Real Madrid star is Austria’s captain and best player but wasn’t named in their squad for the tournament in Germany.
However, Alaba is expected to still be alongside his teammates as they aim to overcome a tough group that includes France, Netherlands and Poland.
talkSPORT.com has taken a look at why he isn’t playing and what role he has instead…
Why is Alaba not playing at Euro 2024?
Alaba is not playing at Euro 2024 due to his injury issues.
The defender has not featured in a game since December 17 last year after he ruptured his anterior crucial ligament (ACL).
He was taken off after only 35 minutes in a 4-1 win against Villarreal seven months ago and he has been recovering ever since.
During the Champions League final, Alaba was named on the bench for Real Madrid, however, he wasn’t expected to play any part.
The 31-year-old is still not fully fit and Austria manager Ralf Rangnick opted against rushing him back into his squad for the tournament.
But Rangnick has appointed him to a unique role in Germany instead.
Alaba will be a ‘non-playing captain’, accompanying his teammates throughout Euro 2024.
Speaking about having to leave out the centre-back, Rangnick said: “It is a great shame of course that he isn’t available to us as a player.
“Over the last weeks I’ve have had close exchanges with David. He stressed he wanted very much to still be with us.
“Therefore, I am very happy to say this [non-playing role] will be possible after a good discussion with his club Real Madrid.”
Austria get their European Championship campaign underway tonight as they face a tough challenge against France.
News Summary:
- Why is David Alaba not playing at Euro 2024? Real Madrid star handed unique role in Germany after missing out on Austria squad
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