Is Dani Carvajal upset with Arbeloa?

Dani Carvajal made his fourth consecutive matchday squad appearance without playing in Mestalla. Since recovering from knee arthroscopy — following the serious injury he suffered in 2024 — the Real Madrid captain has only featured in two matches: 14 minutes against Albacete and 15 against Monaco. His last start dates back to September 27, an unexpected situation for a locker-room leader whose contract expires at the end of the season.

Against Valencia, Álvaro Arbeloa sent two clear messages. The first came on the pitch: he started academy product David Jiménez at right back and later brought on Trent Alexander-Arnold as a substitute. The second came in the press conference, where he emphasized Carvajal’s importance in the dressing room while asking for patience regarding his return to competitive action.

“I’ll be very clear. I see Dani improving in training every day, little by little. I’m not going to take any risks… He’s very important for the players as a reference in the locker room, and I’m sure he’ll find his best level again,” the coach explained.

However, patience does not seem easy for the Madrid captain. At 34 years old, and hoping to remain in contention for the Spanish national team ahead of the World Cup, Carvajal continues to wait for opportunities.