News Focus
- Dani Carvajal makes his final appearance for Real Madrid in a 4-2 victory over Athletic Club
- The Spanish right-back provides an assist during his farewell match at the Santiago Bernabeu
- Carvajal breaks down in tears while delivering a speech to supporters after the final whistle
- His contract expires next month, ending his successful career with the Spanish giants
- The defender expresses hope to return to the club in a different role following his retirement
Dani Carvajal said goodbye to Real Madrid in an emotional ceremony on Sunday evening. The veteran defender played his final match for the club during their 4-2 win against Athletic Club at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 34-year-old Spaniard marked his farewell appearance with an assist. He set up one of the goals in a fine performance for Los Blancos.
After the match, Carvajal addressed the crowd from the centre of the pitch. He broke down in tears while speaking to the Madrid supporters. The full-back thanked club president Florentino Perez for his loyalty. He recalled how Perez renewed his contract less than 24 hours after he suffered a serious knee injury.
Carvajal also praised his teammates during his speech. He admitted the past two seasons have been difficult. However, he remains confident that the team will win trophies again soon. The defender spoke about the club’s golden era. He mentioned winning four Champions League titles in five years and La Décima. He also named legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, Carlo Ancelotti, and Zinedine Zidane.
“This is Real Madrid and we have to get back up,” Carvajal told the fans. “Our history demands it.”
Speaking to the club’s television channel later, the player shared his hope to return to Madrid in the future. He described seeing a special banner (tifo) made for him and hearing the crowd’s applause. These moments made him very emotional.
“I hope to come back to what is my home,” he said. “I want to help this club in a different capacity.”
Carvajal leaves Madrid after more than a decade of service. He won multiple Champions League titles and domestic honours during his time at the Bernabeu.