Real Madrid's Champions League exit at the hands of Bayern Munich has left the Spanish giants in a state of limbo. Their season is effectively over, and while they mathematically remain in contention for La Liga title, few believe a miraculous comeback is possible.

Attention has now turned to shaping the squad for next season as the club looks to avoid a repeat of this year's failings. However, before any new arrivals can be sanctioned, several players must first be moved on.

According to "The Athletic", the club has already identified four players who are certain to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer. These departures are the result of expiring contracts, a lack of first-team opportunities, or underwhelming performances when called upon.

The most high-profile departure is David Alaba. A senior leader in the dressing room, the Austrian's career in Spain has been severely hindered by persistent fitness issues. With his contract winding down, the club will not be offering him a renewal.

Dani Ceballos is also expected to move on. Having spent much of his tenure as a peripheral figure, the midfielder has failed to establish himself as a regular starter. Frequently linked with a return to Real Betis, the Andalusian is thought to have exhausted his chances at the Bernabeu and is ready for a new challenge.

The futures of Raul Asencio and Gonzalo Garcia are also under the spotlight. While Asencio stepped up admirably during last season's defensive crisis, off-field issues have stalled his progress this term. Meanwhile, Garcia faces increased competition from the incoming Endrick, who is expected to feature heavily as a '9', further limiting the youngster's minutes.

These are merely the first four names to surface in what is expected to be a major summer overhaul. For a club of Real Madrid's stature, the rarity of going two consecutive seasons without a major trophy makes a significant shake-up inevitable.

Raúl Asencio

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