Crisis brewing: Real Madrid veteran is becoming a sporting and financial burden for the club

Real Madrid finds itself grappling with an increasingly complex situation surrounding David Alaba, a player who, not long ago, was heralded as a cornerstone of their defensive line. The Austrian international, once a versatile and reliable presence, has unfortunately seen his stock plummet, now reportedly slipping to fifth-choice centre-back in Carlo Ancelotti’s pecking order. This dramatic fall from grace presents not only a significant sporting dilemma for the club but also a burgeoning financial headache that could impact future strategic decisions.

Alaba’s initial arrival from Bayern Munich in 2021 was met with immense optimism. His pedigree as a multiple Champions League winner, coupled with his ability to play at centre-back, left-back, and even defensive midfield, made him appear a shrewd acquisition on a free transfer. He quickly justified the faith, becoming an integral part of the side that clinched the Champions League and La Liga double in his debut season. However, recent times have been less kind. A series of debilitating injuries, most notably the cruciate ligament rupture suffered in December, have severely hampered his availability and form. While his experience and leadership remain undisputed, the emergence of Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and the evergreen Nacho Fernández, coupled with Aurélien Tchouaméni’s surprisingly effective temporary stints at centre-back, have pushed Alaba further down the hierarchy. His prolonged absence and the impressive performances of his peers have undeniably altered the defensive landscape at the Santiago Bernabéu.