Udinese boost ambitions with veteran David Alaba signing

Udinese confirmed on Thursday, 24 September, that 34‑year‑old Austrian defender David Alaba has joined the Serie A club on a free transfer, signing a contract that runs until the end of the 2026‑27 season after his five‑year deal with Real Madrid expired in June.

Versatile champion joins Udinese

Alaba arrives as a four‑time Champions League winner, having lifted the trophy twice with Bayern Munich and twice with Real Madrid. He amassed 431 appearances and 33 goals for Bayern, winning ten Bundesliga titles, six German Cups and two Champions Leagues, and added 132 matches and five goals for Real Madrid, securing two La Ligas and two Champions Leagues in Spain.

The Austrian can also operate as a full‑back or midfielder, and he says he has not come to Italy to “end his career in a slow rhythm” because he still believes he can contribute on the pitch.

Udinese aim to climb the Serie A Liga

Udinese sit in 13th place in the Serie A Liga with four points from five games, having lost their last three matches and failed to keep a clean sheet in the opening five league fixtures, conceding eleven goals.

Udinese signs Alaba until 2027: Austrian defender on €2 million a year

Managing Director Franco Collavino welcomed the signing, calling Alaba “a well‑established star player, a team leader and a role model in his professionalism” and saying his arrival shows Udinese’s determination to grow and compete at the highest level.

Alaba, who captained Austria at this year’s World Cup, added: “I’ve had so many experiences and won so much throughout my career, but one thing hasn’t changed – I want to win again. I want to compete again and achieve something special once more.”

He will line up alongside Nigeria international goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, the club’s first‑choice keeper, as they look to improve their defensive record.

Udinese banks on Alaba to revive the Bianconeri in Serie A

Foto: ANSA / Ansa - Brasil