Carvajal to undergo knee surgery, sidelined until start of 2026 | OneFootball

Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal is set to undergo arthroscopy surgery on his right knee after being diagnosed with a loose joint following the weekend’s El Clasico victory over Barcelona.

The 33-year-old complained of discomfort after coming off the bench in Madrid’s 2-1 win at the Bernabeu and underwent medical tests on Monday morning to determine the extent of the problem.

The club later confirmed that surgery would be required to address the issue.

“Following tests carried out on our captain, Dani Carvajal, by the Real Madrid Medical Services, he has been diagnosed with a loose joint in his right knee. Carvajal will undergo arthroscopy,” read a statement published on the club’s website.

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure, often described as keyhole surgery, used to inspect and repair damaged joints. The operation involves inserting a small camera through a tiny incision to guide surgical instruments.

Carvajal’s recovery timeline is expected to stretch beyond six weeks, and early estimates suggest he could be sidelined until the start of 2026. The news is a significant setback for both the player and the team, given his importance as captain and defensive leader.

The Spaniard had only recently returned from a calf injury sustained in September’s 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid and had been gradually reintegrated into the squad by Xabi Alonso.

Sunday’s appearance against Barcelona marked his first outing since that setback.

This latest injury concerns the same knee that troubled him last season when he ruptured two ligaments and a tendon in October 2024, forcing him to miss the remainder of the campaign.

Madrid’s medical staff are therefore expected to take a cautious approach to his rehabilitation.Carvajal’s absence leaves Alonso with a selection dilemma at right-back.

Fede Valverde, who filled in during El Clasico, may continue in the role temporarily, while Trent Alexander-Arnold — recently recovered from his own muscle issue — provides another option after joining the club in June.

Carvajal has been a central figure in Real Madrid’s modern era, winning multiple Champions League and La Liga titles since his return to the club in 2013. However, persistent fitness problems have plagued his later years, raising concerns about the physical toll of his career.

Madrid will hope their captain’s operation goes smoothly, with his leadership and experience certain to be missed during a crucial phase of the season both domestically and in Europe.