David Alaba joins Udinese: one-year deal after Real Madrid exit

David Alaba is off to Udinese: the Austrian defender has signed for one season as a free agent, after ending his five-year spell at Real Madrid, according to the Italian club’s announcement on Thursday.

Alaba arrived at the Spanish side in 2021 from Bayern Munich and played 132 matches, scoring five goals, while collecting 11 trophies. His Real Madrid haul includes two Champions League titles, two FIFA Club World Cups, two UEFA Super Cups, two La Ligas, one Copa del Rey and two Spanish Super Cups.

A Madrid signature

Before confirming the move, Udinese shared an image on social media featuring a foldable chair on the pitch, a nod to Alaba’s famous celebration with a chair on his head during Real Madrid’s win over Manchester City in the Champions League semi-finals in 2022.

Now aged 34, the defender comes to Serie A with a long international career with Austria dating back to 17. “He lived many experiences and I have won a lot… I want to keep winning… and get something special again,” Alaba said, as quoted by the club.