David Alaba bid the Santiago Bernabeu and Real Madrid goodbye last night after the team’s win over Athletic Club. The club, after all, decided against renewing his contract given his age, wages, and fitness struggles.
The player, thus, bowed out with a win alongside Dani Carvajal and will not be at the club next season. The shy person he is, he did not speak much and kept his conversation with the fans short, emotional, and to the point.
His journey as a Real Madrid player, thus, came to an end after 131 appearances and five years and it remains to be seen what his next destination will be.
Alaba’s farewell letter
Taking to his social media after his last game for Real Madrid, Alaba penned an emotional letter to the fans via X where he explained the roller coaster of emotions he is feeling at the moment.
He began by thanking the club and fans for giving him the chance to experience something special over the past few years, saying,
“Gracias, Real Madrid. I have experienced many things in football and I know that emotional moments are simply part of the journey. But saying goodbye to Real Madrid is something truly special – and without a doubt another really emotional moment of my career.”
“When I arrived in Madrid together with my family and friends, I came with excitement, big dreams, and high expectations. What I experienced over these past five years is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.”
Alaba signed off on a high. (Photo by Jan Hetfleisch/Getty Images)
Remembering all the highs and lows he has gone through over the years at the club, he penned how it felt to have his name etched in history with some of the greats of the game despite all the struggles.
“Together, we experienced incredible matches, unforgettable nights, and games that will forever belong in the history books. We won major titles – exactly what every player dreams of when wearing the shirt of Real Madrid.”
“But difficult moments were also part of this journey. Especially the time of my injury was one of the toughest periods of my entire career. That is why I am even more grateful for the unbelievable support I received from the club, my teammates, and the fans during that time. I will never forget how much everyone helped me return.”
The player then wrote in detail about how his time at Real Madrid was off the field and how the people at the club, including the players and the staff, made him feel at home.
“But these five years were about much more than football success. I met incredible people here and built friendships that will last a lifetime.”
“I will miss the everyday moments in the dressing room – the conversations, the laughter, and all the little things that made this team so special.”
Alaba thanked the fans for all the memories. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Elaborating on what the city of Madrid means to him after spending some wonderful years at the Spanish capital, the player wrote,
“Madrid has become a second home for my family and me. This city, this club, and the people here welcomed us with so much warmth from the very first day. That is exactly why this goodbye is so difficult.”
“Words cannot truly describe how proud I am to have been part of the history of this club. Wearing this shirt, winning titles, and sharing special moments with the Madridistas mean everything to me.”
Finally, Alaba thanked the club for everything, saying,
“Thank you for everything. Thank you for this incredible time. Thank you for every single memory.”
“Saying goodbye is incredibly hard, but at the same time, I am full of motivation and excitement for the next chapter. I truly hope our paths cross again soon.”
“I wish everyone at this club nothing but the very best for the future, and I truly hope that the special relationships and connections I built here will remain for many years to come. Hala Madrid y nada más!” he concluded.