Lucas Vázquez, the versatile Spanish right-back and Real Madrid stalwart, is set to leave the club after the FIFA Club World Cup in July 2025, marking the end of an 18-year tenure with the Spanish giants. According to multiple reports, including insights from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano and journalist Matteo Moretto, Vázquez’s contract, which expires on June 30, 2025, will not be renewed beyond a short-term extension to allow his participation in the upcoming tournament. The 33-year-old’s departure signals the close of a remarkable chapter for one of Real Madrid’s most loyal servants, who has been a key figure during the club’s golden era.
Vázquez, a product of Real Madrid’s youth academy, has spent a decade with the first team, amassing an impressive collection of 22 titles. These include five Champions League trophies, four La Liga championships, four FIFA Club World Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, one Copa del Rey, and four Spanish Super Cups. His contributions, both as a right-back and a winger, have been vital, particularly this season, where he stepped up in the absence of Dani Carvajal, who suffered a long-term knee injury. Vázquez has made 48 appearances across all competitions in the 2024-25 season, scoring two goals and providing seven assists, showcasing his reliability and versatility.
However, the arrival of Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer, has cast a shadow over Vázquez’s future. With Carvajal also set to return from injury in time for the Club World Cup, running from June 14 to July 13 in the United States, Vázquez’s playing time is likely to diminish significantly in the 2025-26 season. The club’s decision to secure a short-term contract extension until July 13 ensures Vázquez can participate in the expanded 32-team tournament, offering fans one final opportunity to see him don the iconic white jersey. Despite his recent injury—a pectineus muscle issue in his left thigh sustained during a 4-3 El Clásico loss to Barcelona—Real Madrid hopes Vázquez will recover in time to feature in the competition.
The decision to part ways with Vázquez comes amid a broader transitional period for Real Madrid. The club is reportedly bracing for a squad overhaul, with manager Carlo Ancelotti set to depart for the Brazilian national team and Xabi Alonso expected to take the reins. The signing of Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen for $66 million and the potential return of midfielder Nico Paz further indicate a shift toward a younger squad. Vázquez’s exit, alongside potential departures like that of Luka Modrić, marks the end of an era for a team that has dominated European football.