Watch: Exit-bound Real Madrid captain’s mocking gesture towards Alexander-Arnold | OneFootball

The spotlight on Dani Carvajal this season has shifted away from his performances and towards his increasingly uncertain role at Real Madrid. 

Once a guaranteed starter and a key figure in the squad, the experienced right-back now finds himself on the fringes under manager Alvaro Arbeloa.

Simply put, Carvajal’s involvement has dropped significantly in recent weeks. 

His last start came in the 1-1 draw against Girona on April 7, and since then, he has only featured briefly off the bench against Deportivo Alaves. 

The situation became even more telling during the recent 1-1 draw against Real Betis, where Carvajal remained an unused substitute throughout the match. 

His absence from the pitch raised further questions about his standing in the team, especially given his experience and leadership role.

Mocking TAA?

Adding to the intrigue, television cameras picked up a moment on the bench that quickly caught attention. 

During the second half, a defensive lapse from Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has overtaken Carvajal in the pecking order, appeared to have caught the veteran defender’s attention. 

The English full-back was seen not tracking his runner during a Betis counterattack, instead jogging back towards his goal.

In response, Carvajal was seen making a gesture from the bench, seemingly mimicking the lack of urgency by moving his hands in a walking motion. 

The reaction, subtle but noticeable, has been widely interpreted as a sign of frustration, not just with that specific moment, but with his current situation at the club.

It must be noted that the relationship between Carvajal and Arbeloa is strained, and moments like this do little to ease that perception.

Beyond the immediate tension, Carvajal’s future is up in the air. His contract is set to expire this summer, and there is still no clear indication of whether he will continue at the club.