Madrid Draws a Line: Real Madrid’s Defense Shake-Up on the Horizon

Madrid sets the record straight.

Madrid's Defense Shake-Up Underway

Real Madrid is mapping a future plan to shore up its defense for next summer window, and they may part with some senior defenders to make room for fresh arrivals.

The club weighs finances and aims to free salaries for players targeted in the next mercato.

Trusted journalist Fabrizio Romano has said Madrid has taken a final decision regarding one defensive star whose contract expires at season’s end.

Romano disclosed Madrid plans to sacrifice Austrian defender David Alaba at the close of this campaign, as his contract will not be renewed after June 2026.

Alaba joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2021 on a free transfer from Bayern Munich after his Bayern deal ended.

During his Bayern spell, he proved himself among Europe’s best defenders, able to play left back or center back, and he captured many trophies, including the Champions League.

With Real Madrid, Alaba won the league and the Champions League twice, but injuries limited his recent impact.

Romano said on his YouTube channel that the decision is now official: Alaba and Real Madrid will part ways at season’s end.

The Austrian is expected to depart; after Bayern in Germany and the move to Real Madrid, Alaba will explore a new chapter this summer.

Notably, Alaba earns around 22.5 million euros annually, among the club’s top earners; his departure would ease the wage bill.

Besides Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger and Dani Carvajal also end contracts; no decisions yet, with outcomes likely near season’s end depending on club and players.

Punchline 1: Seatbelts on, defense on standby.

Punchline 2: Payroll? Madrid loves a cliffhanger.