Alina probably only wanted to do test skates, Japan Open, and maybe Rostelecom or Rusnats this year. Plans changed obviously. Did anyone really believe she would have a full, typical season after she literally made an entire announcement about 'taking a break from competition' and left her future in competition completely up in the air-- publicly?
I could be wrong, but it seems as if Alina has chosen to be done with the sport competitively. Which is an entirely understandable and valid decision for her to make. It doesn't mean she'll never compete again (even if she only does test skates this year, perhaps she'll still do Japan open and Rostelecom next year), but I doubt she'll ever go for the same sort of international success she had in the past again. I'd love for her to prove me wrong. Definitely looking forward to what she's bringing to Test Skates with all things considered.