Alaba explains Udinese move after talks with coach Runjaic
David Alaba said he joined Udinese after speaking with coach Kosta Runjaic about the club's project. The former Real Madrid defender added that he has long wanted to play in Serie A and now sees himself primarily as a center-back. He also consulted Luka Modric, Franck Ribery, and Marko Arnautovic before making the free-transfer switch.
Udinese signed David Alaba on a free transfer about a week ago, after Oumar Solet was sidelined by injury. The Austrian’s arrival drew attention. At his presentation, Alaba said coach Kosta Runjaic’s description of the club’s project helped convince him, and he had long wanted to play in Serie A.
He sees center-back as his best position but can cover full-back or midfield. Before joining, he consulted Luka Modric, Franck Ribery and Marko Arnautovic about Serie A. Udinese expect his experience to aid a backline affected by Thomas Kristensen’s situation, while Solet’s future remains unclear.
The move may boost Udinese’s profile and ticket interest among local fans, while giving Serie A audiences another familiar name. Alaba’s experience could influence younger teammates and raise expectations around the club’s defensive plans. For supporters in Austria and followers of his former clubs, it may renew attention to Italian football. Financial or community effects remain speculative.