At a time when Real Madrid is witnessing an unprecedented flurry of activity in the transfer market this summer, the spotlight appears to be shifting away from the new signings and onto other names that may quietly exit the scene. A surprising decision by the management regarding one of the team’s key players has raised many questions—especially after years of relying on him in the heart of the defense.
The player, who was a cornerstone of the backline until the end of 2023, suddenly found himself out of the picture following a serious knee injury. Since his return, he has failed to reclaim his usual spot, prompting the coaching staff to reshuffle their defensive priorities and place him behind younger, less experienced players in the pecking order.
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What makes the situation even more mysterious is that the club has already attempted to negotiate a mutual termination of his contract, but talks have failed to yield any results. Still, the management prefers to offload his hefty salary this summer rather than wait for his contract to expire in 2026—a move that could free up financial space for potential new signings. However, with few offers on the table due to his dip in form and high wages, his departure may not be as smooth as the club hopes.
Strangely enough, the player is still considered a key figure for his national team, which strengthens his determination to stay for at least one more season—even if he’s out of the starting lineup plans at the Santiago Bernabéu.
So, will the club’s internal pressure be enough to bring his journey to an early end? Or are we looking at yet another chapter of deadlock within the royal fortress?
