Real Madrid captain’s renewal not a given, must be earned – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal has only participated in two Real Madrid games in 2026 so far despite being on the squad for every fixture, and doubts have begun to creep in about his fitness.

The veteran star feels ready to play and contribute to a larger extent than he has in recent games, but the medical staff and management have preferred to err on the side of caution and have kept him on the sidelines.

There is hope that he will see more prominence in February, although even that is not clear given how even Trent Alexander-Arnold has also recovered from his injury.

Contractual situation uncertain

Carvajal’s deal with Real Madrid runs out in the summer and it was widely expected that a renewal would not be a problem, especially given how Real Madrid value his experience.

Future uncertain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

As reported by AS in a recent update, however, there are no clear signs that the right-back will extend his deal and stay for next season as of today.

The club have not taken any decision over his future and see his performances in the business end of the season to be crucial in making the said decision. Carvajal, thus, has to ‘earn’ his future at Real Madrid.

Last season, the club announced the captain’s renewal immediately after his season-ending injury as a sign of appreciation for all he has done for them. Back then, however, they were sure that he was one of the best in the world in his position.

His form and fitness now no longer give off the same feeling, and it is in the player’s hands to turn that situation around. His renewal, at this point, is not a given and will have to be earned through effort.