La Liga
Real Madrid is experiencing an uncomfortable situation with one of its highest-paid players. The Austrian defender, who arrived for free from Bayern Munich, earns 25 million gross per year, about 12.5 million net, a figure that the club considers disproportionate for a player who is now a regular substitute.
A salary that doesn't fit with Real Madrid's current situation
The signed contract was part of a clear strategy: taking advantage of the opportunity to sign a top player without paying a transfer fee. The high signing bonus was spread out in the salary, explaining his current earnings. In his first season, the move seemed successful, but a severe knee injury changed the whole scenario afterwards.
Since then, his role on the field has been declining. From an undisputed starter, he became an occasional option, and currently, he is barely considered in Xabi Alonso's plans. The coach only includes him in emergencies, aware that his competitive level is no longer the same.
The club even tried to terminate the contract last summer. The idea was to pay him half of what he was owed and let him leave as a free agent, but the player rejected that option. He preferred to stay, collect the agreed amount, and wait for an opportunity that, as of today, seems non-existent.
Xabi Alonso and the limited use of the Austrian player
The current coach knows him from their time at Bayern and initially thought he could give him more prominence. However, the reality is different: Alonso favors young and dynamic center-backs, leaving the veteran defender in the background.
The board understands that the decision was right at the time. No one could predict the injury or the subsequent decline in performance. "The signing was positive at the beginning, but the physical consequences were unforeseeable," say sources close to the club. However, the conclusion is clear: his stay will not extend beyond this season. According to DefensaCentral, the center-back's presence in the starting XI is virtually non-existent.

Florentino Pérez and the invisible bill
For Florentino Pérez, the case serves as a reminder of how challenging it is to balance prestige and sustainability. The president defended his signing as a free agent, but now acknowledges that the contract is outdated.
However, the Austrian will continue training with the squad and providing experience. His leadership and international achievements are valued in the locker room, but the financial aspect can no longer be sustained. Real Madrid does not plan to extend his contract, which expires in 2026.
The situation is summed up in a paradox: a player with a star salary but minimal playing time. Real Madrid will have to manage this final year with patience, but the roadmap is clear: once the contract ends, there will be no turning back.
The club is already thinking about strengthening key positions and ushering in new leaders. The departure of the Austrian center-back is inevitable and will mark the end of a period that started with enthusiasm but ends in resignation. Real Madrid cannot afford to prolong this burden in its sports structure any further.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Alaba, un problema para el Real Madrid
