Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal hints at retirement amid Trent Alexander-Arnold signing

Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal has revealed he may retire as his football career nears its end amid Los Blancos’ signing of Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer.

The Spain international has hinted at retirement as Madrid prepare to officially announce England star Alexander-Arnold as his successor for next season.

Carvajal has been pivotal to Madrid’s successes over the last decade, with the 33-year-old holding his spot in the first team since being introduced in the 2013/14 season under Carlo Ancelotti.

The Los Blancos captain has made 427 appearances throughout his career with the club and has won 27 trophies to his name so far.

Carvajal has been absent from the entire season for Ancelotti after suffering an anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) early in the campaign.

Real Madrid have now decided to improve the squad for the future and are close to completing the signing of Liverpool right-back Alexander-Arnold, leading to Carvajal now hinting at a possible retirement.

Real Madrid contacted Liverpool last week after Alexander-Arnold announced his intention to leave. Now, the 26-year-old is set to sign with Real Madrid on a five-year contract as a free agent.

This sends a clear enough message to Carvajal, who knows too well that age is catching up with him and may no longer be able to push his body to deliver like it used to.

Speaking to the media, Carvajal said: “It’s been a long journey. My sports career is already nearing the end. I hope not, but I have to be realistic.”

The Spanish international is unlikely to retire at the end of this season, but he may take up a back-up role at Real Madrid.

However, after the World Cup 2026, he could be headed towards the end of his playing days.