Real Madrid defender David Alaba has shared his experience of playing in El Clasico ahead of their weekend encounter against Barcelona.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Real Madrid defensive mainstay David Alaba has opened up on his experience of taking the field against arch-rivals Barcelona in an El Clasico encounter.
Alaba signed for Real Madrid last year on a free transfer after his contract with Bayern Munich expired. The Austrian international has quickly become a fan favourite at the Santiago Bernabeu, with his impressive displays winning over the supporters.
A permanent fixture in defence alongside Eder Militao, Alaba got his first experience of El Clasico in October last year. The versatile defender scored a goal on his Clasico debut as Real Madrid beat Barcelona 2-1.
Alaba did miss the clash against the Catalans in the Spanish Supercup earlier this year, but is all set to take on Barcelona on Sunday night at the Bernabeu in his second El Clasico. Speaking of his experience facing the Blaugrana, the defender said: “Playing in a Clasico was amazing. It’s a wonderful experience and a day that will live long in my memory. As I said, it was a special experience.
? @David_Alaba ?@adidasfootball pic.twitter.com/dJTgizeUL6
— Real Madrid C.F. ???? (@realmadriden) March 19, 2022
“El Clasico is special because of the history behind it. There is a special feeling around the place in the week before the game, just like there was last time as well. I think that’s what makes it different to other matches. I don’t think it’s only in my country, in Austria. In Germany and throughout the world, the Clasico is special. It’s the match everyone wants to see and that makes it extra special.”
Alaba also opened up on the goal he scored against Barcelona in the reverse fixture, saying: “My goal was great. How do I remember it? I took the ball out of defence, ran down the left flank, then received it in the box and hit it well.”
As for his preparations ahead of Sunday’s clash, he added: “It’s the match everyone wants to see and that makes it extra special. I prepare for it the same as any week, I’ll do just what I always do.”
The 29-year-old Alaba has featured 37 times for Real Madrid this season. He has scored two goals and set up four more, playing a key role in his team’s rise to the top of the La Liga table and progression to the UEFA Champions League quarter-final, where they will face Chelsea.
