Spanish defender Dani Carvajal is set for an extended period on the sidelines after Real Madrid confirmed on Sunday that he requires surgery following a severe knee injury sustained during a La Liga match against Villarreal.
In an official statement, Real Madrid revealed the extent of the injury: “He has been diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, a rupture of the external collateral ligament, and a rupture of the popliteal tendon in his right leg.”
Carvajal sustained the injury in the closing moments of Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Villarreal on Saturday night.
The win helped the reigning champions draw level with La Liga leaders Barcelona, who are set to face Alaves on Sunday.
The injury occurred as Carvajal attempted to clear the ball under pressure from Villarreal’s Yeremy Pino, collapsing in pain shortly after.
The right-back, who played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, confirmed his situation in an Instagram post: “A serious cruciate ligament injury has been confirmed.
I’m going to have to undergo surgery and be out for a few months. I can’t wait to start my recovery and come back like a beast. Thank you very much to everyone for your messages, I feel very loved.”
Support poured in for Carvajal from teammates and notable figures, including Spanish tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, who encouraged him on social media, writing, “Keep up the good work, Dani! You will come back stronger.”
This marks another significant injury blow for Real Madrid, who struggled last season with long-term absences of Thibaut Courtois and Eder Militao due to similar knee injuries.
Spain will also miss Carvajal in the coming months, as he joins Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernandez, also sidelined with a serious knee injury.
In addition, Real Madrid confirmed that winger Vinicius Junior, who scored in the Villarreal match, suffered a neck injury. However, reports suggest he is expected to return after the international break.
AFP
