Dani Carvajal is out injured, and he hasn't had a great season so far, but nobody can question his pedigree and love for the Real Madrid badge.
As the old saying goes: form is temporary, class is permanent. Nobody at Real Madrid has given up hope for Dani Carvajal; that would be frankly nonsensical. A player like him, who has achieved all there is to achieve in the game, has more than justified time to prove himself.
Real Madrid signed Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer in the summer. This was always bound to impact Dani Carvajal, and question marks were raised about whether he'd be given a look-in. But he's one of the best full-backs in the world. Of course, he will be given a chance.
Dani Carvajal sent a message to Barcelona
According to AS, it is almost certain that Dani Carvajal will return from injury in time for the next Clásico against Barcelona (26 October 2025). It is believed to be a personal goal for him, and he will explore every avenue possible to get himself back to full health, all while not risking further injury.
Carvajal is said to be "crazy" about returning for this fixture. He wants it to happen, and so does the club.
For Barcelona, this is frankly terrifying. But let's face it, Barcelona players will be just as crazy about facing Dani Carvajal.
El Clásico is, by far and away, the biggest date on the European football calendar. Gone are the days of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, but the Clásico hasn't lost its spark even now.
Dani Carvajal has played his fair share of Clásico fixtures, so he knows exactly how it goes. He doesn't shy away from such animosity, but instead, he thrives on it. If there was one fixture Real Madrid would give their all to win, it'd be this one.
However, Real Madrid has made the same mistake before. They rushed Jude Bellingham back from injury, and it cost them against Atleti. If Carvajal is back, then it needs to be a 100% fit Carvajal. A 50% Carvajal could easily be upgraded in the starting lineup, if we're being completely honest.
Nevertheless, this statement of intent from Carvajal is a great one for Real Madrid. The players are clearly hungry to bounce back from the poor Madrid derby, and what better way to do it than by humiliating Barcelona?