Key Takeaways:
- In the past 18 months, Dani Carvajal has struggled with fitness following an ACL tear in October 2024
- Despite availability for the last 10 matches, Carvajal has made only two appearances for Real Madrid
- Carvajal’s contract expires on 30th June and there are internal doubts about whether he will be offered a new deal
Squad Planning and Transfer Prospects
With a busy summer transfer window approaching, Real Madrid are preparing to make critical decisions regarding both signings and departures at the Bernabeu. The club is set to pursue reinforcements in both central defence and midfield, while the prospect of high-profile exits looms large. Among those potentially facing the exit door is club captain Dani Carvajal.
🚨 BREAKING: Real Madrid are having DOUBTS about offering Dani Carvajal a renewal.
Sources on the player’s side are NOT convinced he will end up staying, either. @MarioCortegana @GuillermoRai_ pic.twitter.com/6LHLw0x3p5
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) February 9, 2026
Recent Injury Record and Playing Time
The last 18 months have been notably challenging for the 34-year-old right-back, who suffered an ACL rupture in October 2024. Since sustaining this injury, Carvajal has faced ongoing battles with his fitness, making it difficult for him to maintain a consistent presence on the pitch. Although he has been available for selection in Real Madrid’s last 10 fixtures across all competitions, he has featured in just two of those, including a recent instance where he served as an unused substitute during the match against Valencia on Sunday. Following that match, Carvajal was reportedly displeased when speaking with fitness coach Antonio Pintus.
Contract Uncertainty and Internal Assessment
According to The Athletic, Carvajal’s future remains in question within the club. His contract is set to expire on the 30th of June, and it is currently unclear whether Real Madrid will extend his stay in the Spanish capital. Additionally, Carvajal’s representatives are themselves uncertain as to whether he will continue at the Bernabeu. Despite his age, Carvajal theoretically has several years of football ahead, but his recent fitness issues may restrict his competitiveness at the highest level.
Right-back Hierarchy and Potential Replacement Plans
The current right-back options at Real Madrid see Carvajal positioned behind Trent Alexander-Arnold, Fede Valverde, and David Jimenez in the selection order. Should he continue to struggle with fitness and availability, the likelihood of his departure increases. In such a scenario, Real Madrid are expected to identify a new candidate for the right-back role to compete with Trent, with the understanding that Valverde is likely to feature in midfield and Jimenez is not yet experienced enough for a regular place in the starting eleven.
