Real Madrird is undergoing a change of cycle that will continue next summer when several players from the current squad’s contracts expire and decisions will have to be made about their future. One of them is David Alaba. The center back is holding on to his contract with the club, while the club is making decisions that are increasingly distancing him from the starting lineup, something that does not seem to matter to the player.
Alaba clings to the Santiago Bernabéu
David Alaba has been out of action for over a year after a serious cruciate ligament injury that caused cartilage damage. The player returned, but failed to establish himself and fell back into the treatment room. The center back is about to turn 33, and his lack of playing time calls into question whether it is best for him to remain with the team. In addition, he has one of the highest salaries on the roster at nearly €13 million net, which encourages the club to seek a way out. However, he is determined to fulfill his contract with Madrid, and the club will respect his decision.
Huijsen arrives and Xabi counts on Joan Martínez
The arrival of a new center back to the team also influences the decision to let the player go. The Whites have finalized the signing of Dean Huijsen, a young center back who arrives to be a starter under Xabi Alonso, relegating the Austrian to fifth center back behind the newcomer, Rüdiger, Militao, and Asencio.
Dean Huijsen has arrived at Real Madrid after demonstrating great seriousness in defense despite his youth, as well as great potential on the offensive end. The player has one of the characteristics that Xabi Alonso values most, which is a great ball distribution. The coach likes to have the ball and pamper it, so a center back with Huijsen’s characteristics will be key.
In addition, Joan Martínez has recovered from his injury and is expected to play for Castilla this season. The young player has a bright future ahead of him and is expected to join the first-team training sessions throughout the season, with Xabi Alonso keeping an eye on him so that he can gradually gain more playing time.
A suitor tempts Alaba
The prominence of both players could further distance David Alaba from the starting lineup. The player has already spoken with Xabi Alonso and expressed his desire to stay and earn his place. The center back is slowly integrating into the group dynamic and could see some playing time during the World Cup to prove whether or not he has a place in the team.
The player’s reluctance to leave could change in the face of interest from clubs that want to sign him. There has been talk of a return to Bayern, but the latest club to show interest is Galatasaray, according to information released by TGRT Haber. The Turkish champions are looking for an experienced player to compete with Davinson Sánchez in defense and, according to the same source, are planning to make contact with David Alaba.