Real Madrid have confirmed that captain Dani Carvajal is set to undergo surgery on his right knee and could miss up to three months of action.
The Spain international made his return from a muscle injury that had kept him out of action for Los Blancos’ last two league games, coming on in the 72nd minute of Sunday’s 2-1 win over Barcelona.
The right-back was involved in a post-match altercation with Spanish teammate and Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, after making a gesture with his hands.
The latest setback affects the same knee he underwent surgery on following an ACL rupture in October 2024, which sidelined him for the rest of the season.
In a statement released, Real Madrid confirmed that the defender underwent some tests after the match, after he appeared to feel some discomfort.
“Following tests carried out on our captain, Dani Carvajal, by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a loose joint in his right knee. Carvajal will undergo arthroscopy”, the club statement revealed.
Carvajal is projected to miss several weeks of action with the injury, in a major blow to Real Madrid as they chase both the La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
Los Blancos will turn their attention to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who arrived in the summer from Liverpool and also Federico Valverde, who can also deputize in the right-back position.
The 15-time European champions defeated rivals Barcelona 2-1 on Sunday to extend their lead at the top of the standings to five points.
Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham were on the scoresheet, while Fermin Lopez scored a consolation for the visitors.
Real Madrid currently have 27 points after 10 rounds of matches and welcome Valencia on Saturday, with eyes on continuing their great start to the 2025-26 season under Xabi Alonso.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
