Spanish national team coach hails Real Madrid veteran as his ‘idol’ | OneFootball

Dani Carvajal’s ACL injury was a significant blow for Real Madrid, even forcing the Spanish champions to consider January signings – something they don’t usually do.

Real Madrid’s desperation to reinforce the team following Carvajal’s injury underscores the importance of the veteran right-back, who has had a solid impact both in his club and international career.

To that end, Luis de la Fuente, the coach of the Spanish national team, has recently heaped praise on Carvajal, citing his humility and professionalism.

Luis de la Fuente on Carvajal

De la Fuente started by hailing Carvajal as the ‘example of generosity’. He went on to describe the moment when the right-back had to foul Jamal Musiala in the Euro 2024 quarterfinal against Germany.

“He did what he had to do, a foul (on Musiala) that prevented him from playing in the semi-final, but he sacrificed himself for the team, he is my idol,” de la Fuente admitted (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

Carvajal for been ruled out for the season (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

The national team coach also acknowledged Carvajal’s ACL injury which will keep him out on the sidelines for at least a year.

“He is now suffering from a serious injury, which is the hardest and ugliest part of the sport, but they are going with him and football has a lot of risk,” he said.

Carvajal is unlikely to return to action this season, which has prompted Real Madrid to explore a January move for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

At the same time, though, the Spanish champions retain faith in Lucas Vazquez, while Eder Militao and young starlet Jesus Fortea are ready to serve as potential alternatives.

Nevertheless, de la Fuente is hopeful of Carvajal returning to action as soon as possible.

“I’m sad about the injured players, but that gives others a chance, and I hope that both he and Rodri recover as soon as possible because they are very important to maintaining the unity of the team,” he concluded.