A Real Madrid star has reportedly made the decision to depart the club and join their rivals, Atletico Madrid. The player in question, a 27-year-old midfielder, has found playing time limited under manager Carlo Ancelotti this season. Despite making 21 appearances, he has only started four matches, accumulating a total of 504 minutes on the field.
The player's reduced role can be attributed to increased competition within the squad, with recent arrivals and established midfielders vying for playing time. This lack of consistent minutes has led the player to seek opportunities elsewhere in order to prioritize regular playing time over a bench role at one of the world's top clubs.
Although the player signed a contract extension with Real Madrid until mid-2027 last summer, the desire for more significant playing time has prompted the decision to explore other options. While a return to his former club, Real Betis, is a possibility, reports suggest that the player is leaning towards a move to Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid's city rivals.
The manner in which the player will depart from Real Madrid remains uncertain, with possibilities including a permanent transfer with future sell-on clauses or a loan deal with or without an option to buy. The player's current situation indicates a significant decline in playing time compared to the previous season, where he featured prominently in various competitions.
As things stand, the player's limited opportunities under Ancelotti make it unlikely for him to secure a spot in Spain's squad for the upcoming European Championships. However, a move to a new club that offers regular playing time could potentially reignite his international prospects and provide a platform to showcase his abilities on a consistent basis.