Football News Update: Alaba to Take on Non-Playing Captain Role for Austria at Euro 2024
Real Madrid star David Alaba will be present with the Austrian national team at the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament in Germany, but he won’t be taking the field as a player. The 31-year-old defender, who is Austria’s captain and best player, has been sidelined since December 2022 due to a ruptured anterior crucial ligament (ACL) injury.
Alaba’s Non-Playing Captain Role
Despite his absence from the pitch, Alaba has been given a unique role by Austria manager Ralf Rangnick. He will serve as a “non-playing captain,” accompanying his teammates throughout the tournament and providing leadership and support from the sidelines.
Alaba was not named in Austria’s squad for Euro 2024, as Rangnick opted against rushing him back into the lineup while he continues his recovery. However, the Real Madrid star is expected to be a vital presence for his national team, offering guidance and support to his teammates as they navigate a tough group that includes France, Netherlands, and Poland.
“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.”
- Ralf Rangnick, Austria Manager
Austria’s Euro 2024 Campaign
Austria’s Euro 2024 campaign kicks off on Monday, June 17, as they face a challenging match against the reigning World Cup champions, France.
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