Alaba: “I’m happy to play wherever I can help the team”

Real Madrid defender David Alaba starred in Austria’s win against Ukraine this Monday, delivering the assist for Austria’s decisive goal. His versatility has been discussed many times in the past, as it’s not clear what position he will be used at when the season starts. Alaba talked about that versatility in an interview with UEFA.

“For a long, long time I played as a left-back for Bayern, but lately I’ve been playing center-back. And before that, I played as a midfielder sometimes. What does favorite position mean? I’m happy to play wherever I can help the team,” he answered when asked about the matter.

Alaba doesn’t have a clear and obvious opening to be an undisputed starter for Madrid, although it’s likely that he will start in the center of the defensive line if Los Blancos decide to sell Varane this summer.

The defender could also compete with Mendy for the starting left-back spot and his ability to play as a defensive midfielder could also be of great use given that new coach Carlo Ancelotti has not played with pure defensive midfielders like Casemiro many times in the past.