Real Madrid prospect Enzo Alves, the son of former club defender Marcelo, is facing a race against time to recover from an injury that could rule him out of the upcoming FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar. According to a report by Madrid Universal on Sunday, November 8, 2026, the young forward's availability for the international competition has become uncertain after he suffered a setback while representing Real Madrid Juvenil A.

Enzo was forced to leave the pitch during the first half of his team's encounter with Rayo Vallecano after experiencing discomfort following a challenge. His withdrawal immediately raised concerns about his fitness, particularly with the Under-17 World Cup approaching.

Initial reports indicate that the injury may involve his psoas, a deep hip-flexor muscle that connects the lower spine to the upper leg. However, the precise nature of the problem has not yet been established. The teenager is expected to undergo medical examinations in the coming days, which should provide a clearer assessment of the injury and its severity.

The results of those tests, together with his progress during the recovery period, will be important in determining whether he can regain fitness before the tournament begins. Enzo had reportedly been looking forward to representing Spain at the competition, making the uncertainty surrounding his participation particularly disappointing.

Spain's preparations are already underway, with head coach David Cubillo having selected his squad for the tournament. However, Enzo's injury has introduced doubts about whether he will be available to join his teammates for the international assignment.

La Roja are scheduled to open their group-stage campaign against China on November 20 before taking on Fiji three days later, on November 23. Their final group fixture will be against Morocco as they attempt to progress to the knockout stages.

For Enzo, missing the competition would represent a significant setback at an important stage of his development. The Under-17 World Cup offers young footballers an opportunity to measure their abilities against promising players from different countries while gaining valuable experience on the international stage.

The forward is considered one of the emerging talents within Real Madrid's celebrated youth academy, La Fabrica. His development has attracted attention not only because of his performances but also because of his family connection to Marcelo, who enjoyed an outstanding career at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Brazilian left-back became one of the most successful and admired players in Real Madrid's history, collecting numerous major honours during his time with the Spanish giants. Nevertheless, Enzo is working towards establishing his own reputation and developing a career independent of his father's achievements.

Participation in the Under-17 World Cup would have provided another important platform for him to demonstrate his potential and gain experience against international opposition.

For now, the priority is his recovery from the injury sustained against Rayo Vallecano. Real Madrid are expected to monitor his condition carefully and ensure that he receives appropriate treatment before returning to action.

With no confirmed recovery timetable available, Enzo's chances of featuring in Qatar remain unclear. His medical assessment and response to treatment over the coming days will ultimately determine whether he can represent Spain at the tournament.