Austrian defender David Alaba has joined Italian Serie A club Udinese as a free agent after leaving Real Madrid.
The experienced defender will continue his career in Italy after ending his long association with the Spanish giants.
Alaba’s move to Udinese also means he will link up with Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who is part of the club’s squad.
Alaba Leaves Real Madrid
Alaba joined Real Madrid in 2021 after several successful years with German club Bayern Munich.
During his time in Madrid, he was part of the team that won major trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and La Liga.
However, injuries affected his involvement during the later stages of his Real Madrid career.
After leaving the Spanish club, Alaba was available as a free agent before completing his move to Udinese.
New Challenge in Italy
The move gives Alaba an opportunity to continue playing at the highest level in Serie A.
The 34-year-old can operate in several defensive positions, including centre-back and left-back, giving Udinese another experienced option at the back.
His arrival also adds considerable European experience to the Italian club’s squad.
Alaba Links Up With Okoye
Alaba’s arrival at Udinese will also attract attention in Nigeria because of his new connection with Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.
Okoye has been with Udinese since joining the club from Watford and has established himself as one of the Nigerian players competing in Serie A.
The pair will now share the same dressing room as Udinese prepare for the remainder of the Italian season.
Looking forward
For Alaba, the move represents another chapter in a career that has included spells at some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
His experience with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid has seen him compete for major domestic and European honours.
At Udinese, the Austrian defender will now focus on settling into his new surroundings and contributing to the club’s campaign in Serie A.