Real Madrid: Fight for the number 4 shirt after the departure of David Alaba

 David Alaba was one of the players who left Real Madrid at the end of last season, ending a difficult period in his career. Despite a good start at Real Madrid, fitness problems affected his play in the following years. The last two seasons were exceptionally difficult for the Austrian. After his departure, Real Madrid left a place in central defense, which will probably be filled by Ibrahim Konate. The number 4 jersey has also become vacant, and two Spaniards are now competing for it: Dean Huijsen and Raul Asencio. Both defenders have expressed their willingness to wear number 4 in the upcoming season. Huijsen started the season higher in the hierarchy than Asencio, but by the end of the campaign they were both on a similar level, making it difficult to decide who should inherit the number. However, under the leadership of the new coach, Jose Mourinho, their positions in the team may change. The number 4 at Real Madrid was worn in the past by such legendary players as Sergio Ramos, Fernando Hierro and Emilio Butragueno. The final decision will also affect the shirt number of new left-back Marc Cucurella. At Chelsea, Cucurella wore number 3, which at Real Madrid belongs to Eder Militao. His next choice is the number 24, used in the Spanish national team, which is currently occupied by Huijsen. If Huijsen gets the number 4, Cucurella will be able to take over the number 24. Otherwise, he will have to choose another number.