Fernando Hierro
Alkorta attracted the attention of Real Madrid, for whom he signed in the 1993–94 campaign (he was reluctant to make the move, but was persuaded due to Athletic's poor financial situation which was improved by the 350 million pesetas transfer fee). During his spell at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium he formed a notable partnership with Fernando Hierro for club and country, and accumulated more than 150 official appearances and two league titles.