Carvajal Faces Another Surgery

The joy of Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabéu quickly turned into concern. The club confirmed that Dani Carvajal has suffered a new injury to his right knee and will need arthroscopic surgery.

“After tests carried out on our captain Dani Carvajal by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with the presence of a loose body in his right knee. Carvajal will undergo arthroscopic surgery in the coming days,” read the team’s official statement.

The defender, who had recently returned after recovering from a muscle injury suffered in the derby against Atlético de Madrid, played only 18 minutes against Barcelona before feeling pain again. According to Sport, the recovery process is expected to take around two months, which means he might not return until early 2026.

Another Blow for Xabi Alonso

This news complicates matters for Xabi Alonso, who is already dealing with defensive absences. With Trent Alexander-Arnold still regaining fitness after a muscle problem, the coach may again have to deploy Federico Valverde as a makeshift right-back.

It’s a major concern for Carvajal, who had already suffered a torn ACL in the same knee back in October 2024, keeping him sidelined for nearly an entire season. His recurring physical issues are once again a cause for alarm at Valdebebas, just when he seemed to be regaining form and rhythm.

Matches Carvajal Will Miss

If the recovery timeline holds, Carvajal won’t play again in 2025. He is expected to miss about ten matches, including seven in LaLiga and three in the Champions League.

In Europe, he’ll miss fixtures against Liverpool (November 4), Olympiacos (November 26), and Manchester City (December 10). Domestically, he’ll sit out clashes versus Valencia, Rayo Vallecano, Elche, Girona, Celta Vigo, Alavés, and Sevilla.

Another frustrating injury for Real Madrid, who will once again have to readjust their defense at one of the most demanding stages of the season.