Tag: Dani Carvajal

Trent Alexander-Arnold suffers fresh ankle concern after first La Liga assist for Real Madrid

Trent Alexander-Arnold
December 2025

Trent Alexander-Arnold finally recorded his first La Liga assist for Real Madrid with a raking ball that Kylian Mbappe turned into the opener, only to limp off early in the second half with an apparent ankle injury that raises new doubts over his start in Spain. After a sharp attacking display and steadier defending against Nico Williams, Alexander-Arnold went down for treatment and was replaced by Raul Asencio, leaving Xabi Alonso sweating on scans while already missing Dani Carvajal and dealing with criticism from Spanish media who had branded the former Liverpool man clueless after earlier erratic performances and a recent hamstring layoff.

Carlo Ancelotti explains Real Madrid collapse despite Mbappe arrival

Carlo Ancelotti
November 2025

Ancelotti reflected on how a title-winning Madrid side with Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham failed to win silverware, slipping behind Barcelona in La Liga and exiting the Champions League at the quarter-final stage. He pointed to a severe defensive injury crisis that disrupted Madrid’s structure, with Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao suffering ACL issues and Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid) playing hurt. The backline problems forced tactical reshuffles, broke rhythm across the team and eroded the defensive identity that underpinned earlier success.

De Jong condemns Carvajal’s taunt at Yamal after Clásico flare-

Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona)
October 2025

Madrid’s 2–1 win spilled into chaos as Carvajal, Vinícius and Camavinga confronted 18-year-old Yamal over his pre-match jibes. Carvajal’s “talk now” gesture sparked a bench-clearing fracas before security intervened. Captain Frenkie de Jong blasted the mockery, demanding respect for younger players. The incident capped days of needle and overshadowed statement goals by Mbappé and Bellingham.

Mbappé Double Saves Madrid in Nervy Win Over Marseille

Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid)
September 2025

Kylian Mbappé struck two penalties as Real Madrid scraped a 2-1 Champions League win over Marseille. Tim Weah’s opener and Dani Carvajal’s red card created tension, but Los Blancos found a late way through in typical European fashion at the Bernabéu. Weah’s finish gave Marseille a shock lead, but Mbappé equalised from the spot before half-time. After Carvajal’s reckless headbutt left Madrid down to 10, fortune struck — a harsh handball call gave Mbappé another penalty, which he calmly converted to seal victory.

Carvajal Highlights Alonso’s Strict Madrid Regime

Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
September 2025

Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal says Xabi Alonso has instilled stricter discipline compared to Carlo Ancelotti’s freer approach during his tenure as coach. Carvajal, a veteran of both eras, explained Alonso prioritises discipline on and off the pitch. While Ancelotti allowed more leeway, Alonso’s demanding style signals a new era in Madrid’s dressing room hierarchy and tactical management.

Alexander-Arnold Benched as Alonso Rotates Madrid Squad

Trent Alexander-Arnold (Real Madrid)
August 2025

Xabi Alonso benched Trent Alexander-Arnold against Real Oviedo, restoring Dani Carvajal at right-back. Rodrygo returned to the starting XI amid speculation over his future, with Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal reportedly circling. Franco Mastantuono made his first start in midfield. Alonso rotated his squad after debuting Alexander-Arnold last week, opting for Carvajal’s experience. Rodrygo’s inclusion signals Madrid’s attempt to maintain his morale while transfer rumours swirl. Alexander-Arnold’s early benching highlights Alonso’s measured integration plan for new signings.

POPULAR ARTICLES