Dani Carvajal, one of Real Madrid’s captains and a key figure for the Spanish national team, spoke openly on the show “El Partidazo de COPE” with Juanma Castaño. The full-back discussed his recovery, the competition within the squad, and offered some interesting comparisons between Carlo Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso, the current Madrid coach.

More freedom with Ancelotti, more discipline with Xabi

Carvajal, enjoying a great spell after leaving injuries behind, explained how he has felt the change of manager at Real Madrid:
“Every coach has his methodology; they come from different generations. With Ancelotti we had more freedom, we could arrive a little later even if he got upset. Xabi Alonso is stricter, with more discipline,” he said.

The defender acknowledged that the transition has been positive and that the team understands Alonso’s demands, although he made it clear that the Italian’s style was more flexible with the players.

Lamine Yamal and the new generation

The Madrid captain also praised Lamine Yamal, highlighting his rapid growth with both Barcelona and the Spanish national team:
“We suffered from him this year. The kid is changing at an incredible pace. He has the responsibility of being a leader for both Barça and Spain, and that’s not easy, but on the pitch he works hard and delivers exceptional performances.”

Carvajal emphasized that the emergence of young talents like Lamine defines both the present and the future of Spanish football.

Rodri, Arnold, and the future of Real Madrid

He also touched on the arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold at Real Madrid:
“It makes sense they signed him. I’m 32 and coming off a serious injury. I won’t be here forever, so it’s normal for them to bring in fresh blood.”

The right-back also admitted he has already hinted to Rodri Hernández of Manchester City that he’d like to see him in a Madrid shirt someday: “Hopefully he can sign for Madrid; he’s a fantastic player.”

Ceballos, Ramos, and Vinícius—other insights

Carvajal revealed that Xabi Alonso convinced Dani Ceballos to stay at the club after his move to Marseille fell through: “He told him he’d count on him because the season is very long.”

When asked about Sergio Ramos, he avoided controversy over his new musical career: “Music is very important to him. If he ever gives an interview, he should explain his departure from the club.”

Finally, he spoke about Vinícius Jr. and his role: “Sometimes he can be more decisive coming off the bench. The manager’s idea is for all of us to stay fresh and switched on.”