One Man Standstill Could Decide Carvajal's Real Madrid Fate
1 February 2026
Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal remains short of full match sharpness, but his potential return could recalibrate the team’s balance in the weeks ahead, according to AS.
Carvajal was among the first players to leave Lisbon’s Da Luz after a tough 4-2 loss to Benfica, having served as captain on and off the pitch. The frustration he displayed underscored the pressure of the moment as Madrid sought stability after a difficult period.
Even with his name in the squad in Madrid’s last eight matches, his on-pitch contribution has been limited. He has not started a game in 127 days, with only brief cameos late in games, totaling 13 minutes versus Alavés and 14 against Monaco. Still, the veteran’s aura and dressing-room influence remain significant as he builds his rhythm back.
His ongoing return to fitness could unlock valuable tactical flexibility for Carlo Ancelotti. With Carvajal back, Federico Valverde could be freed from some defensive duties, allowing Madrid to experiment with a stronger midfield quartet — a trio of Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Jude Bellingham in a 4-3-3, or Valverde moving to the right as a link between midfield and attack, a setup Ancelotti has used on previous European campaigns.
At 34, Carvajal’s renewal remains a topic of discussion, driven by his leadership and long service. His future at the club appears plausible, but concrete plans hinge on his return to peak form and consistency on the field.
Ultimately, the full picture will depend on his actual comeback. If he stays healthy and impactful, he could be a turning point for Real Madrid’s season; if not, the door remains open for other options to fill the gap.
Liberating Valverde and reshaping the engine room
The comeback would allow Valverde to operate further forward, unlocking a more dynamic engine room. Ancelotti could lean on a sturdy midfield trio — Valverde, Tchouaméni, and Bellingham — in a 4-3-3, or reassign Valverde to the right to bridge midfield and attack, recreating the balance Madrid have used in their European campaigns.
Clear path to renewal, uncertain timing
Carvajal’s contract situation may soften if he proves his fitness and performance levels, but the timeline remains uncertain. Real Madrid will be watching closely to ensure his return translates into consistent contributions and stability for the defense as the season progresses.
Punchline time: If Carvajal stays healthy, Real Madrid’s left flank might finally stop wobbling and start vibing. Punchline two: if not, they’ll need a tactical map, because the left-back position is officially staging its own epic saga.
