Real Madrid: conflict with Dani Carvajal, Alvaro Arbeloa responds

Europe 23 April 2026 at 10:16

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

The Dani Carvajal situation at Real Madrid has been making headlines in recent days.

With his contract set to expire on June 30, Dani Carvajal is reportedly open to a one-year extension at Real Madrid. This is despite his limited playing time under Alvaro Arbeloa, who has shown a clear preference for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Addressing the issue during Thursday’s press conference, Arbeloa stated: “Trent is in top form, he deserves to play, and his performances have been flawless. Every match is crucial for me. If I select a player, it’s because I believe he deserves it and I think it’s the right choice to win.”

He added: “It’s very simple, only 11 players can be on the pitch. It’s not that they aren’t good enough. I’m being unfair to many others, but I know how hard they work in training. That’s all.”

For Arbeloa, there is nothing personal against Dani Carvajal, contrary to what the media might suggest. “My response the other day to a question I found inappropriate was brief and serious. You can see my reactions every time I talk about him. Ask my players how I speak in front of the group. You’re trying to put me in a tricky, unfair situation. He is more than ready for the World Cup, I’m happy with him, and I believe he should be just as important for the national team. I have always had a good relationship with him, always treated him with affection, respect, and admiration. For some to think I choose my lineups for personal reasons... I find it hard to believe that any coach in the world would not select their team for purely sporting reasons.”, he explained.