Ancelotti pulled out all the stops at the Emirates Stadium. That’s why he opted for Alaba instead of Fran García at full-back against Arsenal—to try to contain Saka, who appeared to be the most dangerous threat.

And that’s also why he tested the Austrian in that more physically demanding position, compared to centre-back, during the final minutes against Valencia, when Madrid were chasing a win… even though they ended up losing.

Alaba showed weaknesses in that game against Valencia—and again versus the Gunners. In fact, he’s been showing them ever since he returned from his serious knee injury. Across the 600 minutes he’s played in 14 matches since then, he hasn’t managed to complete a full game. It’s a worrying sign for him, as it puts his future at Madrid in doubt. With a contract that runs until 2026, the club will soon have to decide whether to extend his deal or let it run down.

Alaba finds himself in a similar situation to Rüdiger. The German, who’s also over 30 (32), is likewise under contract until 2026. Both have become Madrid’s next renewal dilemma. Their futures will be decided after those of Modric and Lucas Vázquez, whose deals expire this June, but Alaba and Rüdiger’s cases require more strategic thought.

It would be surprising if Madrid chose to extend both, especially considering the rise of Asencio and the club’s interest in signing Huijsen—who, although still 19, could arrive for close to €50 million.

Adding to the uncertainty around Alaba’s future is Rüdiger’s strong form. This season, he’s logged the third-most minutes in the squad, behind only Valverde and Mbappé. And he’s proven himself recently as a clutch performer—whether it was the penalty he coolly converted at the Etihad in the last Champions League, his goal against Atlético, or that crucial effort in the Copa del Rey. Not to mention his hard-fought point-saving performance against Shakhtar. All of that has cemented his standing with the fans.

On top of that, Madrid are counting on the full recovery of Militão (27) by next season. Before his knee injury, Ancelotti considered him one of the top three centre-backs in the world.

While he won’t make it in time for the Club World Cup, he’s expected to be in peak condition for the next pre-season—and ready to fight for a starting spot. So will Alaba. But over a year after his injury, he’s still being handled with care by Ancelotti, who’s waiting for the Austrian to rediscover his former level. So far, though, it’s clear: Alaba has lost his place.