Carvajal Delivers Bold Message to Alexander-Arnold Following Triumphant Real Madrid Comeback
Dani Carvajal embraced the rivalry that Trent Alexander-Arnold will create for his position as Real Madrid's primary right-back and cautioned the summer signing that he has consistently stepped up when faced with competition from previous challengers.
Madrid compensated Liverpool to obtain Alexander-Arnold's signature one month prior to his Merseyside contract's expiration this summer, bringing the England star to the United States for the Club World Cup. During that period, Carvajal had not completely healed from the ACL setback that kept him out for the majority of the 2024–25 domestic season.
Carvajal made a brief appearance in Madrid's Club World Cup semifinal defeat to Paris Saint-Germain before gradually regaining fitness over the subsequent three weeks. The newly appointed club captain entered during the final moments of Madrid's league debut against Osasuna on Tuesday evening—a game where Alexander-Arnold struggled to find his rhythm—and is aiming for increased playing time ahead.
"I view competition the same way I have throughout my career," Carvajal reflected after the match. "The greater the competition I've faced, the better I've performed. It's an enormous challenge that will elevate both of us as players."
There exists a scenario where both defenders could feature simultaneously. Should Xabi Alonso implement a three-man defense, Carvajal could seamlessly shift into the right center-back position while Alexander-Arnold enjoys attacking freedom from the wingback role. This tactical adjustment could potentially address Alonso's concerns regarding the troublesome right wing position. With Rodrygo spending another match on the substitutes' bench, Brahim Díaz started against Osasuna but failed to provide significant attacking impetus.
It might remain premature for Carvajal to start more than 10 months since his previous appearance in the starting lineup, but he is undoubtedly keen for expanded responsibilities. When questioned about his physical condition following Tuesday's performance, the 33-year-old responded confidently: "Excellent, the manager has already confirmed this.
"Working intensively and finding competitive form, which will develop through training sessions and match time. Delighted to have the opportunity to play at home today, where I feel tremendous support. Now to focus on [Real] Oviedo."
Madrid journey to Asturias for Real Oviedo's inaugural top-division home match in 24 years on Sunday, with both Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold hoping to participate.