Dani Carvajal Adjusts to New Life at Getafe While Reflecting on Real Madrid Legacy
Dani Carvajal is navigating new challenges after leaving Real Madrid, where he spent 23 years, yet his deep ties to the Bernabeu remain intact. In a recent interview with AS, the former Madrid defender spoke about his departure, highlighted Federico Valverde’s achievements, and praised Carlo Ancelotti for being a significant influence throughout his career.
Now a player for Getafe, Carvajal also expressed interest in returning to Real Madrid in a coaching capacity. His departure from the club followed an impressive tenure of 451 appearances and 27 trophies, evolving from an academy product into a vital member of the first team. While his exit signals the close of one remarkable chapter, Carvajal wholeheartedly embraces the opportunity to establish himself in a new jersey.
Dani Carvajal Reflects on Leaving Real Madrid for Getafe
He acknowledged that acclimating to his new routine hasn’t been simple after years of commuting to Real Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex.
“I had an incredible send-off – one of the best experiences of my life.
“Going out onto the street and feeling the warmth of the Madrid fans, thanking me for everything I’ve done and asking me to come back in the future, is what fulfills me the most – more than the trophies.
“Feeling that the fans are proud of how I’ve given my all is the best thing ever. Now at Getafe, I’m treating it as a challenge, and I’m really looking forward to playing.”
After a career rich with achievements, Carvajal emphasized the meaningful connection he created with Real Madrid fans.
Carvajal recalled several pivotal moments from his 13 years with the first team, including his presentation day and the celebration of ‘La Décima’, which heralded a 12-year golden era alongside young talents such as Nacho and Morata.
“The day of my presentation, without a doubt. The day of ‘La Décima’, which marked the start of a 12-year golden era with a very young squad and academy graduates like Nacho, Morata and Joselu himself.
“And I’ll also always remember the day of my farewell.”
Carvajal Praises Valverde After Real Madrid’s El Clasico Victory
Despite joining Getafe, Carvajal experienced emotional moments during Real Madrid’s recent 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clásico.
He recognized how the match illustrated Madrid’s resilience and commended both squads for their effort.
“I was nervous. I thought it was a cracking match. Both teams put in a great performance, but Madrid in particular never backed down at any point.
“Real Madrid made a statement. It looks different, but I watched it wearing a Madrid shirt.”
Furthermore, Carvajal acknowledged Valverde’s versatility, noting his effectiveness as a right-back where his physical capabilities enable him to contribute on both sides of the game.
“He’s very versatile. Thanks to his physical attributes, he flies up and down the pitch; he’s a powerful passer and covers a lot of ground. He’s doing very well.”
Carvajal Names Ancelotti as Favourite Manager
Among the many managers Carvajal has worked with, Ancelotti stands out as a key figure.
The defender explained that his relationship with Ancelotti developed over time, during which he transitioned into a more senior role within the team.
“I’ve had many; I’ve taken small things from each of them… but the one I’ve spent the most time with and achieved the most success with has been Carlo [Ancelotti].
“He’s almost like a second father to me. During his second spell, the dynamic was different because I was one of the captains; he’s seen me grow, so I’d have to say, Carlo.”
Carvajal also shared insights from other managers, including Zidane and Lopetegui, and expressed his desire to absorb the lessons they imparted.
“Yes, I try to take the positives from all of them. I’m very empathetic and I try to put myself in the manager’s shoes when he has to make decisions.”
After dedicating 23 years to Real Madrid’s academy and first team, Carvajal has not dismissed the possibility of returning in the future, especially in a role that allows him to remain active on the field.
“At the moment, I’m enjoying playing. In the future, only God knows whether it’ll be as a youth coach, on the board or in a protocol role…
“But I see myself more out in the thick of it, on the pitch with the youth teams or coaching, because I love the action,” he concluded.
