It’s the early days of the 2024-25 season, and the defending UEFA Champions League and La Liga champions Real Madrid CF have suffered another serious blow. Their main man in the defense, and a serious Ballon d’Or contender this time, Dani Carvajal has suffered a serious ACL injury, as confirmed by himself through a social media post. The extent of the injury is such that he is expected to miss the rest of the season.
Last night, Real Madrid secured a two-goal to-nil victory against Villarreal. But instead of respite, the match ended with serious concerns for the giants. Initially, their second goalscorer Vinicius JR. got subbed for an injury he faced during the game, leaving the field while holding his shoulder.
Later, in the stoppage time of the second half, Dani Carvajal suffered a blow after kicking the leg of an opponent. The star right-back immediately took to the ground, crying and hiding his tears with the shirt. His injury seemed very serious while he was leaving the ground on a stretcher.
Further tests are being conducted, but it can be confirmed from various reports that the 32-year-old has suffered a serious injury and will not be able to play for the rest of the season. The defender has confirmed through his Instagram post that he will undergo surgery for a serious cruciate ligament injury. He also confirmed that he will be off the field for a “few months”.
How Dani Carvajal injury might impact Real Madrid?
The No. 2 is undoubtedly one of the most consistent players for Real Madrid CF. He has featured in all games for the club this season, except for one against Deportivo Alaves. He often captains the side to excellence and was one of the main architects of Real Madrid’s glory last season. He was the last man standing in the 2023-24 season when many first-team defenders got injured.
With Carvajal set to miss the season, 33-year-old Lucas Vazquez is the only right-back available for them. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has shared that he has confidence in Vazquez, and will think about the solutions in the coming international break. He further shared that since the market is closed, they will have very few options for replacement.
The situation looks really tense as several Real Madrid first-team stars are injured – Goalie Thibaut Courtois, Defenders David Alaba and now Dani Carvajal, along with midfielders Dani Ceballos and Brahim Diaz.
Also Read: 5 Barcelona players injured ahead of the 2024-25 season