Frank Christian
Carlo Ancelotti is faced with a crucial challenge at the right-back position following the serious knee injury sustained by team captain Dani Carvajal.
Carvajal had to exit the field during Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory against Villarreal, and subsequent evaluations confirmed the team’s worst fears regarding his injury.
A club announcement stated: “After examinations by the Real Madrid Medical Services, Dani Carvajal has been diagnosed with a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, a rupture of the external collateral ligament, and a rupture of the popliteus tendon in his right leg. He is scheduled for surgery soon.”
The severity of these injuries indicates that Carvajal will likely miss the remainder of the season, further limiting Ancelotti’s defensive options.
With Carvajal out and David Alaba also sidelined for a significant period, Ancelotti is left with only six senior defenders. Given the ongoing La Liga title defense, chasing a 16th UEFA Champions League title, and next year’s expanded FIFA Club World Cup, it is reasonable that Ancelotti has hinted at seeking new players in the January transfer window. However, the immediate question is how he will adapt in the interim.
Who are the potential replacements for Dani Carvajal at Real Madrid?
Lucas Vazquez
Primarily a winger, Vazquez has successfully transitioned to serve as backup at right-back in recent seasons. With the pre-season signings of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick, plus the rise of Arda Guler, Vazquez’s opportunities in an attacking role have diminished for now. He is expected to be Ancelotti’s top choice moving forward.
Federico Valverde
Ancelotti’s adjustments in the midfield post-Toni Kroos have encountered some challenges, as seen during last week’s losing match against Lille in the UEFA Champions League. While Valverde could play a crucial role in addressing these issues, his incredible stamina and adaptability make him a suitable alternative for the left-hand side of defense.
Jesus Vallejo
Since returning from a loan at Granada, Vallejo has only played a mere 10 minutes in La Liga and is currently behind midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni for a center-back position. Nevertheless, in this challenging time at the Santiago Bernabeu, Vallejo has prior experience playing at right-back on a few occasions, making him a potentially solid option compared to Vazquez or Valverde as a more traditional defender.
