Double farewell at Real Madrid: Ibrahima Konaté and the new Sergio Ramos are to blame

Real Madrid has made Ibrahima Konaté one of its priorities for the summer of 2026, when he will become a free agent from Liverpool. His imposing physique, his ability to anticipate, and his experience on major European stages make him a strategic option to strengthen the defense. In addition, since he would arrive on a free transfer, it would allow resources to be invested in other areas without giving up an elite center-back.

The board at the club especially values his reliability in aerial play and his ability to start plays with good judgment from the back. Konaté has already shown in England that he can support a top team under maximum pressure. That competitive maturity convinces Florentino Pérez. His addition is intended as an immediate quality boost, not just a simple bet for the future.

Joan Martínez: the youngster tipped as the new Sergio Ramos

Alongside Konaté's name, Joan Martínez stands out, a center-back from Madrid's youth academy who is seen as the natural successor to Sergio Ramos. At 6 ft. 4 in. (1.94 meters) and with a privileged physique, he combines defensive power with a polished ball-playing ability that recalls the Andalusian in his early years. Although a knee injury slowed his rise, the club keeps full confidence in his recovery and potential.

At Valdebebas, they believe that Joan Martínez can become a leader in the medium term if given the opportunity. His status as a homegrown player, with Real Madrid DNA, further strengthens the plan to back him as a strategic piece. The idea is for him to grow protected by veterans and to take on responsibilities progressively until he establishes himself in the first team.

Two necessary departures: Alaba and Rüdiger at the end of the road

For Konaté and Joan Martínez to join, Real Madrid must part ways with two of its current center-backs. David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger finish their contracts in 2026 and Florentino Pérez's decision is clear: there will be no renewal. Age, injuries, and competitive wear have weighed in an analysis that aims to rejuvenate the back line.

Alaba has suffered too many physical setbacks and hasn't been able to keep continuity, which raises doubts about his future contribution. Rüdiger, although still performing at a good level, no longer fits the future plan designed for the defense. Both will say goodbye, making way for a new era led by Konaté and Joan Martínez.