Real Madrid prepare a summer clean-up, several players pushed out

The cyclical nature of professional football often dictates periods of significant change within clubs, even those that consistently operate at the highest echelons of the sport. Real Madrid, a perennial contender for major titles both domestically and in Europe, find themselves at a potential juncture as the current season progresses towards its climax. Despite still being in contention for silverware on multiple fronts, a critical review of the squad’s future is reportedly underway at the Santiago Bernabéu, prompted by recent performances that have fallen short of the club’s lofty standards.

While Real Madrid remain a formidable force, their journey through the current campaign has been marked by instances of inconsistency, leading the club’s management to seriously reconsider their squad management strategy for the upcoming summer transfer window. Recent disappointments, most notably the humbling 3-0 defeat at the hands of Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, have seemingly served as a catalyst for this internal review. The manner of the defeat, perhaps even more so than the scoreline itself, is said to have triggered concerns at the highest levels of the club, prompting a thorough evaluation of certain player choices and the overall composition of the squad, irrespective of the outcome of the return leg at the Bernabéu.

According to reports from the Spanish daily AS, this significant European setback, compounded by a recent defeat in La Liga against Valencia (a 1-2 loss), has had a direct impact on several contract extension negotiations that were previously believed to be progressing smoothly just a few weeks prior. Two iconic figures within the Real Madrid dressing room, Luka Modric and Lucas Vázquez, are reportedly the first to be affected by this shift in the club’s approach.

Luka Modric, the veteran Croatian midfielder who will turn 40 in September, had expressed his unwavering desire to conclude his illustrious career at Real Madrid. However, his current status as a regular substitute, a role that has seen his playing time significantly reduced this season, has cast a shadow of uncertainty over his ambition. While the club has traditionally offered one-year extensions to players over the age of thirty, Modric’s diminished role may lead to a different decision this time around.

Similarly, the future of Lucas Vázquez, the versatile Spanish winger and full-back who has been a loyal servant to the club for many years, also appears to be in jeopardy. At 33 years of age, Vázquez’s performances this season are reportedly no longer convincing the Real Madrid hierarchy that he warrants an extension. His departure seems increasingly likely, particularly with the widely anticipated arrival of English international Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer from Liverpool in the summer. Alexander-Arnold is projected to compete for the right-back position alongside Dani Carvajal from the start of the next season, further reducing the potential playing time for Vázquez.

The internal review at Real Madrid is not limited to the aforementioned veteran players; it reportedly extends to the central defensive unit as well. While Austrian international David Alaba, who is 32 years old, continues to enjoy the trust and confidence of manager Carlo Ancelotti, his recurring injury struggles, particularly since suffering a serious knee injury, have raised questions about his long-term reliability. Alaba’s current contract runs until 2026, the same expiration date as that of his central defensive partner, Antonio Rüdiger.

Interestingly, despite also being 32 years old, Antonio Rüdiger has firmly established himself as a cornerstone of the Real Madrid defense. The German international has consistently delivered solid performances throughout the season, showcasing his resilience and leadership qualities both in La Liga and in the Champions League, even while reportedly battling chronic knee pain. Rüdiger’s importance to the team is underscored by the fact that he is currently the third-most used player by Carlo Ancelotti this season, trailing only Federico Valverde and the recently arrived Kylian Mbappé.

Looking ahead to potential incomings, Real Madrid are clearly intent on strengthening their squad in key areas during the summer transfer window. In addition to the expected arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold to bolster the right-back position, the club is reportedly targeting a young and promising central defender. Among the profiles being actively considered is Dean Huijsen, a talented young defender currently on loan at AS Roma from Juventus. This interest in a younger center-back aligns with the club’s desire to build for the future and secure players with long-term potential.

Furthermore, Real Madrid are also prioritizing the acquisition of a future-oriented midfielder. Among the top targets being considered for this position is Martín Zubimendi, the highly regarded midfield maestro currently playing for Real Sociedad. Zubimendi’s qualities as a deep-lying playmaker and his tactical intelligence have made him a coveted player, and his potential arrival at the Bernabéu could well have significant implications for the future of veteran midfielders like Luka Modric, potentially solidifying the Croatian’s departure from the club.

The potential summer clean-up at Real Madrid signifies a clear intention to refresh and rejuvenate the squad following a season that, while still offering the possibility of success, has also exposed certain limitations and areas requiring strengthening. The decisions regarding the futures of long-serving players like Modric and Vázquez, coupled with the targeted recruitment of younger talents in key positions, suggest a strategic shift aimed at ensuring Real Madrid remain at the forefront of European football for years to come. The coming months will undoubtedly reveal the full extent of this squad overhaul and the new faces that will grace the hallowed turf of the Santiago Bernabéu next season.