David Alaba is set to leave Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer after successful spell at the club. The Austrian international established himself as one of the most dependable players in the team since his arrival from Bayern Munich in 2021. He will leave Saint Barnebeu with two La Liga titles and two Champions League titles.
Real Madrid confirmed on Friday that Alaba’s contract with the club will not be renewed. Madrid president Florentino Perez paid tribute to the departing defender, highlighting his impact on the club’s success in Europe.
“David Alaba has earned the affection of all Madrid fans for his dedication, his hard work, and for an iconic image on our journey toward the 14th European Cup, which symbolised the celebration of a victory and is now part of our club’s history,” Perez said. “Real Madrid will always be his home.”
Alaba arrived Madrid and established himself as one of the key players for the club under then-manager Carlo Ancellotti. However, his recent seasons have been severely hampered by fitness issues. He only managed 14 appearances in 2024/25 season, following a return from a devastating anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2025.
In April, Alaba suffered a meniscus tear, which forced him to miss the remaining part of the season and the Club World Cup. This season, the versatile defender was restricted to just 15 appearances and four starts in La Liga due to injuries. As a result, he lost his regular starting position, with Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, Raul Asencio, and Dean Huijsen all considered ahead of him.
Despite his injury history, Alaba is still considered a hotcake in the transfer market. AC Milan are said to monitor his situation closely. Clubs outside Europe like MLS and Saudi Pro League are also said to be interested in the 33-year-old.
Meanwhile, Alaba is set to captain Austria to the 2026 World Cup, having been named in Ralf Rangnick’s final squad for the tournament.
