Real Madrid’s newest signing, David Alaba made his first official appearance for the club over the weekend, in the league game against Deportivo Alaves.
While many were expecting the versatile player to play in his preferred centre-back role, Carlo Ancelotti opted to utilise him at left-back due to the absence of Ferland Mendy and Marcelo.
For someone, who was playing a different league for the first time in over a decade, Alaba looked nervous and shaky from the start of the game. Faulty passes, misjudged tackling, and a whole lot, it was indeed nervy moments for him.
However, after just 20 minutes, the Austria international grew into the game and began to show the reason why Madrid went all out to get his signature.
His strong, commanding presence at the left side of defence was as good as the good old days of Marcelo and he surged forward like no one’s business, exchanging some good passes with his teammates in the final third of the game.
For the most period of the game, Alaba spent in the opposition’s half, trying very hard to make things happen for his side.
It was also a great sight to see the former Bayern Munich defender approach free-kicks as he was keen in taken them, knowing that also forms part of his specialties.
Alaba was impressive on the day and was rewarded for his good works when he provided the assists for substitute Vinicius Junior to grab Madrid’s fourth goal on the night against Alaves.
The Austrian also managed two key passes during his 90 minutes on the field of play and was not at any point dribbled past.
If his debut is anything to go by, Alaba will of course be a great addition for the club this season and in the next few years to come.
