Udinese banks on Alaba to revive the Bianconeri in Serie A

Udinese announced on Thursday the signing of a one‑year deal for David Alaba, a free agent since July after his departure from Real Madrid, with a contract that ties him to the club until 30 June 2027. The Austrian defender arrives in Serie A while the Bianconeri are struggling to get out of the relegation zone.

Udinese’s surprise signing

Udinese Calcio caused a sensation by recruiting the Austrian international, clubless since his departure from Real. The statement even mentions “Add us to your Google favorites” as a call to supporters.

The club said it was proud to announce the signing of one of the most decorated and prestigious footballers on the international stage. This statement underlines the club’s ambition for prestige.

Alaba signed a contract that will bind him to the club until 30 June 2027. The one‑year term with an extension option shows the desire for a medium‑term commitment.

“I’m certainly not coming here to finish my career. I’m still far too ambitious for that,” Alaba said. He added that he wants to perform every week in Serie A and “go after something.”

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

Alaba’s honours

Captain of Austria at the last World Cup, Alaba has 117 caps and 15 goals with the Mannschaft. His international experience strengthens Udinese’s defence.

Trained at Austria Vienna, he spent the majority of his career at Bayern Munich, where he won ten German championships between 2011 and 2021 and two Champions League titles (2013, 2020).

From 2021 to 2026, he wore the Real Madrid shirt, adding two Spanish league titles and two Champions League titles (2022, 2024). His impressive honours make him one of the most decorated defenders.

David Alaba, free from Real Madrid, signs for Udinese in a new Italian adventure

After the first five matchdays of the new season, Udinese sit in 13ᵉ place with four points and only one win. The situation is worrying for the Friulian club.

The Bianconeri have conceded eleven goals, which puts their defence as the fourth most leaky in Serie A. This fragility has worsened since the Danish Thomas Kristensen left for Atalanta.