Real Madrid veteran seen as a dressing room leader despite limited role | OneFootball

David Alaba has quietly taken on the role of a senior dressing-room figure at Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso. 

According to trusted reports from Romain Molina, Alaba acts as a guiding voice for younger players, someone his team-mates turn to for advice and a steadying presence on the training ground and off it.

From the moment he arrived on a free transfer from Bayern Munich in 2021, Alaba’s leadership credentials were clear. 

But in recent seasons his influence has mattered just as much off the pitch as on it, especially as Real Madrid rebuilds under Alonso and seeks new defensive foundations. 

Indeed, recent reports note that while his playing minutes have dropped, his value as a mentor and communicator in the squad remains significant. 

Injuries have hampered Alaba

Sadly, the 33-year-old face significant headwinds when it comes to his time on the field. 

His current contract at Real Madrid runs until 2026 and those close to the club say there is no plan to extend his deal, meaning Alaba could leave as a free agent at the end of the season. 

David Alaba could leave Real Madrid in 2026. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

His reduced involvement is largely down to an extensive injury list. In December 2023 he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee, then required further surgery on cartilage damage in May 2024. 

Since his comeback attempt he has also suffered a meniscus tear and a calf/soleus muscle injury that have all combined to significantly limit his minutes on the pitch. 

No place in the starting XI

Sportingly, Alaba has slipped down the pecking order. 

With new and younger options emerging, such as Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio, he finds himself viewed more as a backup and veteran voice than a guaranteed starter. 

In short, Alaba remains a valued leader within the Real Madrid squad and someone Xabi Alonso trusts to help go through a season of transition. 

But his playing future looks set until 2026, when his contract ends and the club appears ready to move on.