Real Madrid considering brekaing one-year renewal rule for veteran ahead of ‘painful departures’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid have decided to renew the contract of veteran defender Dani Carvajal, although they may go out of their way to break their own unofficial rules.

The 32-year-old right-back has returned to his best form this season, and has been a key reason for their success, with few injury issues setting him back. The physical data being collected by the fitness staff at Real Madrid say that he is as healthy as he has ever been, and within Valdebebas, they are convinced that he can remain at the top level for five or six years to come.

From his point of view, Carvajal is content and wants to remain at Real Madrid. His long-term focus is on reaching the World Cup in 2026, and he is intent on staying at the Santiago Bernabeu until then at the very least. His current deal expires in 2025, and Real Madrid have already decided unanimously to renew his deal, as per Relevo.

Generally Real Madrid do not offer extensions longer than one year to veterans aged 30 or over, but they are considering offering him an extension of one year plus an option for an extra year, such is their confidence in him, so they do not have to renegotiate with him again a year further down the line. They would not announce the option publicly, so they can refer to their policy in negotiations with others.

They have little fear of him leaving, but it could save some of the speculation and uncertainty, which has hung over Nacho Fernandez, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Lucas Vazquez this season, as they prefer for ‘painful exits’ this summer. Nacho is expected to leave, Vazquez is expected to stay, and there is uncertainty over the two midfielders.

Carvajal could become the player with the most Champions Leagues ever on the first of June, alongside Paco Gento with six. The fact he is a pillar of the team, and one of a decreasing number of Spaniards in the squad also work in his favour, with Dani Ceballos and Fran Garcia potentially leaving this summer if they ask for an exit.

There are still some details to be ironed out, and Carvajal has not received the decisive call, but all signs suggest it will be announced either after the Champions League or the Euros this summer. They intend to announce it sooner rather than later though, and Carvajal knows their intentions.

Certianly it is the best campaign from Carvajal in some time, and his contributions have been vital, as they dealt with significant injuries in the backline. Provided his fitness continues in the same fashion, keeping Carvajal around is a no brainer – on form, there are few better in the world.