Dani Carvajal faces months out with a confirmed cruciate injury
Dani Carvajal, the star of Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, suffered a severe injury during the match against Villarreal. The player let out a harrowing scream and was then carried off the pitch on a stretcher to the waiting ambulance. Shortly after the incident, he confirmed the worst fears.
The incident occurred in the second half's final seconds of added time. Real Madrid's right-back was clearing the ball from his team's penalty area when he collided with Villarreal player Yeremy Pino's thigh.
Carvajal then fell to the ground, screaming in agony. His teammates immediately gathered around him and called for medical assistance. Unable to leave the pitch independently, medics took him off on a stretcher. He was cheered off by the applause of the fans.
Dani Carvajal speaks out after the injury
Speculation began immediately in the media about Carvajal's injury. Because of his evident pain, there were concerns he had sustained a footballer's worst possible injury—a cruciate ligament tear in the knee. A few hours later, Carvajal addressed the situation, confirming the speculation. All indications are that his season is now over.
A severe cruciate ligament injury has been confirmed; I will need surgery and several months away from the pitch. I can't wait to return stronger. Thank you all for the messages of support; I feel very loved - wrote Dani Carvajal on Instagram.
Who is Dani Carvajal?
Dani Carvajal is a Spanish footballer long affiliated with Real Madrid. Born on 11 January 1992, he started his football journey in the club's youth teams, often referred to as 'the Whites'. In 2012, he moved to Bayer Leverkusen, where he made his Bundesliga debut and quickly gained attention. After just one season, Real Madrid signed him back, recognising his talent.
Carvajal has achieved numerous titles with Real Madrid, including winning the Champions League five times. He is renowned for his incredible stamina, dynamism, and defensive capabilities, establishing him as one of the best right-backs in the world. He has also represented Spain in the World Cup and the European Championship.