Spain manager confirms Real Madrid captain Carvajal remains in contention for World Cup squad following foot injury
Despite a right foot injury sustained during training last week, the 34-year-old is expected to understand if he is left out given his limited international appearances in 2025.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal remains in contention for the national squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The right-back sustained a right foot injury during a training session with his club last week, prompting concerns over his availability for the tournament held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
De la Fuente stated that Carvajal does not suffer from a specific or serious injury, though he requires time to regain his usual level of fitness. The manager emphasised that the player must demonstrate his form in upcoming matches to secure a spot, noting that the final decision will depend on whether Carvajal delivers the necessary performances in the remaining fixtures.
Carvajal, 34, joins teammate Lamine Yamal on a list of players who have sustained injuries in the weeks preceding the event. The Spanish national team is scheduled to begin their campaign against Cape Verde on 15 June, with subsequent group matches against Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group H.
The manager acknowledged Carvajal's status as a very important figure within the dressing room but highlighted the context of his recent international involvement. De la Fuente noted that Carvajal has made only one appearance for Spain in 2025 and would likely understand if he were excluded from the final squad given his limited recent contributions to the national team.
Off the pitch, Carvajal is approaching the final weeks of his contract with Real Madrid and has faced increased competition for game time this season from Trent Alexander-Arnold. These contractual and club-level dynamics add a layer of complexity to his selection process, even as the federation evaluates his physical readiness for international duty.
The timeline for Carvajal to return to his usual level of fitness remains uncertain, with the exact prognosis for his right foot injury not fully detailed by the coaching staff. While the manager expressed confidence in his recovery, the strict deadline imposed by the tournament schedule means that only sustained performance in the immediate future will guarantee his place in the squad.
