At Real Madrid, they're already looking to the future of the goalkeeping position. Although Thibaut Courtois is still an absolute guarantee, the club knows that the Belgian will turn 34 in 2026 and that, by then, he might need a replacement. The idea isn't to rush a change, but to plan ahead so the transition is as smooth as possible.
The goalkeeping position is a key one and Madrid wants to avoid improvisation. That's why they've already started analyzing options for the summer of 2026, when Courtois could be entering the final stretch of his time as the starting goalkeeper.
Nübel, the goalkeeper Xabi Alonso likes
In this regard, several media outlets point out that Xabi Alonso's top choice, the new Real Madrid coach, is Alexander Nübel. The German goalkeeper, currently at Stuttgart, has had an outstanding season in the Bundesliga.
Xabi Alonso especially values his maturity and leadership on the field, qualities he considers essential to defend Madrid's goal. In addition, his experience in Germany and his modern profile fit perfectly with the style of soccer the coach wants to implement at the club.
Neuer's heir and Ter Stegen's rival
Nübel isn't just any goalkeeper on the international scene. In Germany, many see him as the natural heir to Manuel Neuer in the national team. His progress and performance have made him one of the leading candidates to inherit the starting spot in the German goal in the coming years.
On that path, his main competitor would be Ter Stegen. In fact, if he keeps his level, Nübel could compete with him for the starting spot at the 2026 World Cup.
Ter Stegen's injury, a key factor in the World Cup battle
Ter Stegen's current situation could influence this contest. Barça's goalkeeper will be out for four months due to a back injury, which will prevent him from accumulating minutes and match rhythm for the 2026 World Cup.
If Nübel keeps delivering strong performances with Stuttgart and, eventually, at a club with greater projection, he could reach the summer of 2026 with a significant advantage over Ter Stegen. In that scenario, Madrid's interest would make sense not only from a sporting perspective, but also in a narrative where Nübel would establish himself as one of the best.