Real Madrid center-back Jesús Vallejo’s time at the club appears to be nearing its end, as reports confirm that Carlo Ancelotti has ruled him out of the squad for the rest of the season. Vallejo, who has struggled to find regular playing time, has failed to impress the Italian coach and will no longer feature in any of the remaining matches this season.
A Forgotten Figure at Madrid
Vallejo’s journey at Real Madrid has been disappointing. Since joining in 2015 from Real Zaragoza, he has never managed to secure a permanent spot in the starting lineup. Despite multiple loan spells at clubs like Eintracht Frankfurt, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Granada, Vallejo has not been able to break into Madrid’s defensive rotation. Even with Real Madrid facing injuries this season, Ancelotti has chosen other options, further sidelining Vallejo. Now at 28, Vallejo has been completely excluded from matchday squads, signaling the end of his tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu.
No Future Under Ancelotti
It has become clear that Ancelotti has no plans to use Vallejo for the rest of the season, marking the end of his time at the club. Even when squad rotations were anticipated, Vallejo was overlooked, suggesting that the club is preparing for his departure.
This move is not a surprise, considering Vallejo has never cemented his place in a competitive Real Madrid squad. With players like Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba ahead of him, Vallejo has become a peripheral figure. Young talents like Rafa Marín and Marvel also have more opportunities than him.
An Inevitable Summer Departure
Vallejo’s contract, which expires in 2025, will likely lead to his exit this summer. Whether through a permanent transfer or mutual contract termination, the club will aim to offload him and free up a spot in the squad. A return to La Liga or a move to a mid-tier European club appears to be the most probable next step for the defender.
After nearly ten years at the club without breaking into the first team, Vallejo’s Real Madrid career seems to be concluding. With Ancelotti making it clear that Vallejo is not part of his plans, all indications point to his departure at the end of the season.
This season, Vallejo has only played 10 minutes, a brief stint in a match that nearly cost the team points. Although he is capable of playing in central defense or as a right-back, his performances have not met the club’s high expectations. This lack of trust from the coach further confirms that Vallejo will not feature for the remainder of the season.
A Fresh Start for Vallejo
At 28 years old, Vallejo still has time to find a new club and attempt to revive his career. However, Real Madrid sees this separation as the best outcome for both the player and the club, which needs players who can meet its top-level standards.
