€32 Million Player Reveals Reasons for Unsuccessful Stint at Real Madrid

Real Madrid is widely considered the most challenging club in the world to excel at. The expectations are immense, with the pressure to win every game and every competition looming large. Such is the burden that comes with donning the iconic Royal White jersey. While some players thrive under this pressure, others find it daunting.

Jude Bellingham, for instance, seems to have thrived since his arrival at Real Madrid, quickly establishing himself as a rising star. However, not many can adapt to the demands of the club.

One such example is Alvaro Odriozola, who struggled to meet expectations during his tenure at Real Madrid. Odriozola was signed from Real Sociedad for approximately €32 million in the summer of 2021. Over the next five years, he made fewer than 50 appearances for Real Madrid. He also endured a less-than-impressive loan spell at Fiorentina and a forgettable one at Bayern Munich. This summer, he finally departed the Santiago Bernabeu and returned to Real Sociedad, the club where he honed his skills in the youth ranks and enjoyed his best football.

When asked about why he didn’t achieve success at Real Madrid, Odriozola offered a thoughtful perspective, as reported by MARCA:

“It is a very peculiar club, a club surely in which you find the greatest competition than in any club in the world. Zidane, Lopetegui, Solari, Ancelotti, I have learned a lot, although the circumstances did not arise. But, although it did not seem like it, it was a happy stage.”

Odriozola’s gracious words reflect his appreciation for the time he spent at the club, despite not getting many opportunities.

However, right-back remains a concern for Real Madrid. Dani Carvajal, while still the starter, is not the player he once was in his prime. Additionally, there is no natural backup for him. Lucas Vazquez and Nacho are not natural right-backs and are both over 30 years old. Given the situation, it is somewhat surprising that Odriozola did not receive more opportunities to prove himself at the club.

Navigating success at Real Madrid remains a formidable challenge, with the weight of expectations ever-present. While some players shine brightly, others find it difficult to adapt to the demanding environment of one of the world’s most prestigious football clubs.