Real Madrid veteran defender David Alaba is increasingly likely to leave the club next summer, as the club continues its defensive overhaul under manager Xabi Alonso.
Real Madrid to Release David Alaba in 2026 Summer Overhaul
Despite Alaba’s public dismissal of exit rumors, sources indicate the Austrian’s future lies away from the Spanish capital.
The club had already attempted to facilitate his departure this summer by offering him a €6 million payout—half of his annual salary—to terminate his contract early.
Alaba declined the offer, choosing to remain for the final year of his contract. However, his role has diminished significantly under Alonso, who does not view the 33-year-old as part of his long-term plans.
Alaba has been relegated to fifth-choice center-back, behind Dean Huijsen, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and academy prospect Raul Asencio.
Alaba’s frequent injury struggles and high annual salary of €22.5 million have made his retention unsustainable for Real Madrid.
His limited involvement this season—including just nine minutes in a recent match against Real Sociedad—underscores his reduced status.
The club is prioritizing a youth-focused defensive rebuild, with Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate and Castilla product Joan MartÃnez targeted as potential replacements for Alaba and Rudiger, whose contracts also expire in 2026.
While Alaba has expressed confidence in regaining fitness and competing for playing time, the club’s strategic shift and Alonso’s tactical preferences make his departure inevitable.
Real Madrid’s leadership views the 2026 summer window as a pivotal moment to phase out veteran defenders and integrate younger talents.
An official decision from Alaba is awaited, but all signs point to his exit as Real Madrid accelerates its defensive revolution.
