Rabat – Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal is facing another long injury break after being diagnosed with a loose joint in his right knee.
The 33-year-old defender will undergo arthroscopy, a type of keyhole surgery used to inspect and treat joint problems. The procedure involves small cuts and a camera to guide repairs inside the knee.
Carvajal felt discomfort after coming on as a substitute in Real Madrid’s 2–1 win over Barcelona on October 26. It was his first match since suffering a calf injury in the 5–2 loss to Atletico Madrid in late September.
Tests on Monday confirmed the new issue, and the club announced he will be sidelined for at least six weeks, possibly until January 2026.
“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,” a club statement read on Monday evening. “Carvajal will undergo arthroscopy.”
This is the same knee Carvajal injured in October 2024, when he tore two ligaments and a tendon, missing the rest of that season.
His recurring knee problems have raised concerns about his long-term fitness, especially as he’s been a key figure in Madrid’s defense for over a decade.
With Carvajal out, Real Madrid may rely on Fede Valverde to fill in at right-back, as he did against Barcelona. Trent Alexander-Arnold, recently recovered from injury, is another option being considered by coach Xabi Alonso.
Madrid currently leads La Liga and are preparing for key Champions League fixtures. Carvajal’s absence is a blow to the squad’s depth, especially during the busy winter schedule.
