Dani Carvajal Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / August 26, 2025
As the calendar turns to 2025, Dani Carvajal stands not just as a vital cog in one of football’s greatest-ever teams, but as a symbol of loyalty, resilience, and elite professionalism.
At 33 years old, the Spanish right-back has defied the odds, evolving from a discarded academy graduate into a Real Madrid legend, a Champions League icon, and one of the most respected defenders in world football.
Then: The Forgotten Son of La Fábrica (1992–2013)
1. Early Life and Real Madrid Roots
Born on January 11, 1992, in Leganés, Madrid, Daniel Carvajal Franco grew up a diehard Real Madrid fan. His dream was always to wear the white shirt. He joined Real Madrid’s youth academy, La Fábrica, at age 10 and rose through the ranks with promise and consistency.
Despite standout performances for Real Madrid C and Castilla (the reserve team), Carvajal was released in 2012—a decision that stunned many. At the time, the club saw him as a solid but unspectacular talent, not quite ready for the first team.
2. Redemption at Bayer Leverkusen
In a twist of fate, Carvajal was signed by Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga for just €5 million in 2012. What followed was a revelation.
In his single season in Germany (2012–13), he:
- Made 33 appearances across all competitions
- Excelled with his pace, defensive discipline, and attacking runs
- Earned praise for his maturity and consistency
- Caught the eye of Spain’s national team scouts
His performances were so impressive that Real Madrid activated a €6.5 million buy-back clause—a rare move that would go down as one of the smartest in football history.
Related: Pau Torres Then and Now
The Rise: Becoming Madrid’s Right-Back of the Century (2013–2022)
1. Return to the Bernabéu – A New Era Begins
When Carvajal returned to Real Madrid in 2013, few expected him to become a long-term starter. The club had just signed Álvaro Arbeloa, and right-back wasn’t considered a priority.
But under Carlo Ancelotti, Carvajal seized his chance. His energy, stamina, and tactical intelligence made him the perfect fit for Ancelotti’s counter-attacking system. By 2014, he was the undisputed starter.
2. The Decade of Glory (2014–2024)
From 2014 onward, Carvajal became a central figure in one of the most successful periods in Real Madrid’s history. His trophy cabinet is staggering:
Major Honors with Real Madrid (as of 2025):
- 6 UEFA Champions League titles (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2024)
→ One of only three players to win six UCL titles; the only outfield player to start in six finals. - 4 La Liga titles (2017, 2020, 2022, 2024)
- 2 Copa del Rey titles (2011*, 2014)
- 5 FIFA Club World Cups (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022)
- 5 UEFA Super Cups (2014, 2016, 2017, 2022, 2024)
- 2 Spanish Super Cups (2017, 2022)
Note: He was at Leverkusen in 2011 but returned in time for 2014.
3. Iconic Moments
Carvajal has delivered some of the most clutch performances in Champions League history:
- 2016 Champions League Final (vs. Atletico Madrid): Played through injury, made crucial tackles, helped secure a penalty shootout win.
- 2017 Final (vs. Juventus): Scored a stunning long-range goal, becoming the first right-back to score in a UCL final since 2003.
- 2022 Final (vs. Liverpool): Made a last-minute goal-line clearance that preserved the 1–0 lead—hailed as one of the greatest defensive acts in final history.
- 2024 Final (vs. Borussia Dortmund): Captained the side in an emotional farewell season, playing every minute as Madrid won their 15th European crown.
Related: Ronald Araújo Then and Now
Now: The Captain, the Leader, the Legend (2025)
1. Club Captaincy and Leadership
In 2024, following the departure of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić’s reduced role, Dani Carvajal was officially named captain of Real Madrid—a symbolic and emotional moment for a player who once left the club as a reject.
Now in 2025, he wears the #2 jersey and armband with pride, leading a new generation that includes Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, and Endrick. His leadership is defined by:
- Leading by example – first in training, last to leave
- Demanding excellence – known for pushing teammates
- Calm under pressure – a voice of reason in high-stakes matches
2. Evolution as a Player
While still explosive, Carvajal has adapted his game in 2025:
- Less reliance on pure pace, more on positioning and anticipation
- Smarter in buildup, acting as a deep-lying right midfielder when needed
- Improved passing accuracy and decision-making
- Still capable of game-changing attacking runs and crosses
Under manager Carlo Ancelotti (returned in 2023), he remains a starter in big games, often rotated to manage fitness—but never absent when it matters most.
3. Injury Resilience and Longevity
Carvajal’s career has been marked by significant injuries:
- Multiple hamstring issues
- A serious back injury in 2021
- Knee problems in 2023
Yet, his work ethic, recovery discipline, and commitment to sports science have allowed him to return stronger each time. In 2025, he’s seen as a model of athletic longevity.
Related: Aymeric Laporte Then and Now
International Career: Spain’s Trusted Warrior
1. A Pillar of La Roja
Carvajal has been a consistent presence for the Spanish national team since his debut in 2016. With over 50 caps, he’s represented Spain at:
- UEFA Euro 2016, 2020, 2024
- FIFA World Cup 2018, 2022
Though Spain hasn’t won a major tournament since 2012, Carvajal has been praised for his reliability and maturity in defense.
2. Euro 2024 – A Final Farewell?
In the 2024 UEFA European Championship, Carvajal played a key role as Spain reached the semifinals, delivering a vintage performance against Germany. While Unai Simón and Dani Olmo grabbed headlines, Carvajal’s defensive solidity was crucial.
There are growing rumors that 2025 could be his final season—potentially culminating in a farewell appearance at Euro 2024 or the 2025 UEFA Nations League Final.
Personal Life and Legacy
Carvajal is known for his modesty, faith, and family values. He is married to Ana Gómez, and they have two children. He frequently shares moments of family life on Instagram, where he has over 6 million followers.
He’s also involved in charity work, supporting children’s hospitals and youth football programs in Madrid.
Despite his success, he remains deeply connected to his roots—often visiting Leganés and Real Madrid’s academy to mentor young players.
Related: Aymeric Laporte Then and Now
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Dani Carvajal’s story is one of redemption, loyalty, and quiet excellence. He represents:
- The triumph of perseverance – released, then returned to become a legend
- Club loyalty in an era of constant transfers
- The value of the full-back in modern football
He’s redefined what it means to be a modern full-back—not just an attacker, but a complete defender, leader, and warrior.
In 2025, he is widely regarded as:
- The greatest right-back in Real Madrid history
- One of the most decorated players in football history
- A role model for academy players worldwide
Conclusion: Dani Carvajal – Then and Now (2025)
- Then: A 20-year-old released by Real Madrid, fighting for relevance in the Bundesliga.
- Now: A six-time Champions League winner, club captain, and living legend at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Dani Carvajal’s journey is more than a football story—it’s a testament to belief, resilience, and love for a club. He didn’t just return to Real Madrid.
He earned his place in history.
As he prepares for what may be his final season, one truth stands eternal:
Dani Carvajal didn’t just wear the white shirt.
He honored it.
⚪ “I was let go once. But my heart never left.” – Dani Carvajal
Related: Ilkay Gündoğan Then and Now