Real Madrid have a new role for injured veteran defender as he recovers from ACL knock | OneFootball

Dani Carvajal may be sidelined for nearly a year after undergoing surgery for a torn cruciate ligament. His absence has served as a massive blow for Los Blancos, who are running thin on options in defence.

The stability Carvajal offered at right-back, coupled with his leadership and experience, had made him an indispensable figure in the Madrid backline. Losing him, therefore, shocked many in the Bernabeu camp.

Carvajal’s new role at Real Madrid

However, Real Madrid appear to have found a new way to tap into the veteran defender’s influence.

As reported by David Aguilera (h/t Madrid Xtra), Just 21 days after his surgery, Carvajal was back at Valdebebas, participating in a different capacity during Real Madrid’s training session.

Despite being unable to play, the full-back’s presence is invaluable to both the squad and coach Carlo Ancelotti, who sees Carvajal as a vital leader during his recovery.

Real Madrid are looking to maximise Carvajal’s leadership and experience. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“We are not going to take advantage of his strength, but we will take advantage of his head,” Ancelotti stated after the game against Celta, hinting that Carvajal will be heavily involved in the team’s day-to-day activities.

In his new role, Carvajal is expected to support his teammates off the field, offering tactical advice and leadership during key moments.

The defender has already begun integrating into this capacity, chatting extensively with Ancelotti on the sidelines during Monday’s session and providing instructions to the team ahead of their Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund.

Carvajal’s influence in the dressing room is clear, and Ancelotti has made the decision not to reinforce the squad with a new player, choosing instead to rely on Carvajal’s leadership.

The veteran defender is set to stay close to his teammates, even joining them on select Champions League trips, depending on his recovery progress.