Real Madrid is preparing to say goodbye to one of its greatest legends: Dani Carvajal is set to leave after 23 years of glory at the club. At 34 years old, the right-back, who is a true institution at the Bernabéu, will see his contract expire this summer, bringing to a close a career filled with titles and unforgettable moments.
With 450 appearances for Real Madrid, Carvajal leaves behind an impressive legacy: six Champions League titles, six Club World Cups, five UEFA Super Cups, four La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, and four Spanish Super Cups. This journey has elevated him to the status of the club’s ultimate symbol, ever since he left the Madrid academy to conquer the world.
Florentino Pérez, president of Real Madrid, did not hold back in his praise as he announced the player’s farewell: “Dani Carvajal is a legend and a symbol of Real Madrid and its academy. His image alongside our beloved Alfredo Di Stéfano laying the first stone of Ciudad Real Madrid will forever be etched in the hearts of Madridistas and in the history of the club. Carvajal has always exemplified the values of Real Madrid. This is and will always be his home.”
However, unfortunately, Carvajal’s farewell is also marked by the shadow of injuries. Since the serious incident in October 2024, when he tore his anterior cruciate ligament, as well as the lateral collateral ligament and the posterolateral corner of his right knee, the player has never been the same. This issue culminated in arthroscopic surgery in December 2025, which severely limited his presence on the field: he has played only three full matches this season.
This outcome tarnishes a brilliant career that, two years ago, almost earned him the coveted Ballon d’Or. In the 2023/24 season, Carvajal was instrumental in Real Madrid’s double triumph in La Liga and the Champions League, standing out with a decisive goal in the final at Wembley against Borussia Dortmund. Shortly thereafter, he was a key player in Spain’s victory at the European Championship, solidifying his place among the best in the world.
As for the future, Carvajal’s destination remains uncertain. Despite rumors of a possible transfer to the Middle East, the climate of instability in the region makes this prospect unlikely. What is certain is that Real Madrid will now have to search for a new right-back to fill the vacant position, in an open competition with names like Trent Alexander-Arnold.
In addition to Carvajal’s departure, Real Madrid is preparing for a revolution in the squad this summer, with the arrival of coach José Mourinho, who has signed a two-year contract. The era of change is about to begin, and saying goodbye to Carvajal is just the start of a new phase at the Madrid club. A chapter that closes with emotion, but which opens doors to a new era of challenges and ambitions.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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