Real Madrid veteran struggling to decide future with only two options on the table | OneFootball

Real Madrid veteran David Alaba is now at a critical point in his career at the club. As reported by SPORT, the Austrian defender is currently considering two possible paths as his time at the Santiago Bernabeu reaches an uncertain phase.

It must be noted that after a long battle with injury, Alaba has struggled to regain the level he once showed during his early days at the club.

He had been sidelined for over a year due to a serious cruciate ligament injury, and his recent performances have raised concerns about his ability to compete at the highest level.

Struggling post return

One of the most telling moments came during Madrid’s recent clash with Arsenal. In just the fourth minute of the match, Alaba was beaten by a simple feint from Bukayo Saka, which forced him to commit a foul and pick up a yellow card.

It was an uncharacteristic error from a player of his experience and one that placed the team in a difficult position. He was eventually substituted in the 61st minute.

David Alaba has struggled to make an impact. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

This was not an isolated performance. In the Copa del Rey encounter against Real Sociedad, Alaba was involved in the build-up to all four of the opposition’s goals.

Once a reliable and commanding figure in defence, he now finds himself behind Antonio Rudiger and the rising star Raul Asencio in the centre-back hierarchy.

A choice between exit and obscurity

With the summer transfer window approaching, the outlet mentions that Alaba’s situation is becoming more complicated.

Real Madrid are expected to strengthen their defence even further, with players like Dean Huijsen or William Saliba being linked to the club. On top of that, Eder Militao’s will recover from his injury soon.

This leaves Alaba with two realistic options. He can either accept a transfer away from the club this summer, potentially seeking a fresh start elsewhere, or remain in Madrid as the fifth-choice centre-back for the final year of his contract.

The latter would mean significantly reduced playing time, especially in such a competitive environment.

While Real Madrid do value Alaba’s contribution, his recent displays have forced the management to look for young blood who can offer consistency.