Real Madrid veteran completely rules out exit, ready to fight for his place | OneFootball

David Alaba is one of a handful of Real Madrid stars who has only one year remaining on his contract.

After his serious knee injury and difficult recovery, the Merengues have no plans to renew him.

In fact, reports have suggested that Real Madrid’s preference is for the 33-year-old veteran to leave this summer, as he holds one of the highest salaries in the squad – €10.5 million net per season.

Alaba has no plans to leave

However, according to AS, sources close to Alaba are clear as far his immediate future at Real Madrid is concerned: “He is staying.”

The report states that Alaba has been surprising everyone in pre-season training, especially amidst the debate over his future and the potential signing of an additional centre-back.

The 33-year-old is training on equal terms with the rest of the squad after missing the Club World Cup due to injury, and according to those at the club, he looks “very eager.”

Alaba making an impression in pre-season. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Alaba’s issues are not footballing, but physical. His ACL injury occurred in December 2023 during a match against Villarreal, following which he underwent surgery.

But the recovery process was complicated by cartilage damage, meniscus issues, leading to a follow-up arthroscopy in May 2024. He did not return to the pitch until January 2025 – 399 days after his initial injury.

Alaba managed only 600 minutes of game time after returning and never started back-to-back matches in the second half of last season due to recurring muscle injuries and ongoing discomfort in the operated knee.

Now, however, those close to Alaba say that the summer break has helped him reset physically. His body appears to be responding well, and he is eager to prove to Xabi Alonso that he can compete for a place in the team.

The Austrian has returned from holiday in top shape and is determined to compete for the centre-back position alongside Dean Huijsen. He has ruled out leaving the club this summer.