Real Madrid set to part ways with two Champions League heroes at the end of the season | OneFootball

A recent report from AS has shed light on a major decision looming at Real Madrid, with veteran defenders David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger both expected to leave the club when their contracts expire at the end of the season.

The outlet mentions that Alaba’s situation appears the clearest of the two. The defender has struggled to regain continuity following his knee injury. 

At this stage of the season, there is little optimism within the club that a renewal will be offered. 

Sources close to the player indicate that no contact has been made by Real Madrid to open talks, a strong signal that his chapter at the Santiago Bernabéu may be nearing its conclusion.

While Alaba remains highly respected within the dressing room, the physical demands of elite football and concerns over his long-term availability weigh heavily against any extension. 

What about Rudiger?

Rudiger’s case is more nuanced. Unlike Alaba, the German has continued to deliver strong performances whenever called upon and is viewed as an influential figure behind the scenes. 

Antonio Rudiger is most likely to leave in the summer. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

In fact, there remains a possibility, however uncertain, that his situation could still be revisited.

That said, no concrete steps have been taken. As things stand, Rudiger has not received a formal approach from the club either. 

The only message conveyed internally is that his future will be reviewed later in the season, leaving the defender in a state of limbo similar to Alaba’s.

Should both Alaba and Rudiger depart next summer, it would mark the end of an important era in Madrid’s defence. 

Crucially, neither exit is expected to be contentious, as both players are set to leave on good terms, having played key roles in the club’s last two UEFA Champions League triumphs.