The anger after the win against Valencia exposed a hidden tension between Dani Carvajal and the coaching team, threatening to change the captain’s path at Real Madrid.
The relationship between Dani Carvajal and Real Madrid is going through its worst period in over a decade of association. Once a symbol of dedication and hierarchy at Bernabeu, the 34-year-old defender is now living through deep disappointment.
The peak of the conflict erupted right after the 2-0 victory against Valencia, when cameras captured Carvajal having a heated argument with fitness coach Antonio Pintus on the pitch. His body language showed exhaustion and a sense of unfair treatment after weeks of being sidelined on the bench.
Although fully recovered from injury and claiming his fitness is ready, Carvajal has not been given a chance by coach Alvaro Arbeloa. Even more bitter for the leader is that Arbeloa prefers to deploy Fede Valverde out of position or rely on young David Jiménez from the reserves instead of using his experience.
For Carvajal, this sends a message that insults his pride. He feels completely betrayed by the coaching staff, being excluded without any convincing professional explanation.
Under public pressure, coach Arbeloa tried to ease tensions with soothing remarks: "Dani is improving day by day, but I won’t take risks. He embodies commitment and sacrifice, but we need patience for him to return to his best form."
However, these flattering words fail to hide the harsh reality on the field. The club’s silence and lack of contract renewal moves (his deal expires in 2026) only strengthen the belief that Carvajal’s era at Madrid is nearing its end.
At 34, Carvajal still desires to compete at the highest level and refuses to be a "surplus" player in the final years of his career. According to Fichajes sources, the veteran defender has started considering finding a new club this upcoming summer.
If Real Madrid does not resolve this soon, a quiet departure of their captain could happen, closing a historic chapter that few anticipated just months ago.