Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star not ruled out of Spain’s World Cup plans despite limited game-time
In what was expected to be a defining season for Dani Carvajal at Real Madrid, the veteran defender is instead having the most frustrating one yet.
With his contract running out at the end of the season, Carvajal has barely played any football this season, largely on account of his injury problems.
There were hopes that the veteran would be able to play some football at the start of the year, when he returned to the team setup.
However, it appears the defender is still not in optimum conditions yet to become a permanent fixture in Real Madrid’s starting plans, with even reports of a rift growing between him and the coach, Alvaro Arbeloa.
This has led to fears that Carvajal may not only be able to fail in earning a new contract at Real Madrid and may also be miss out from the Spain team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Carvajal is not out of De la Fuente’s plans yet
But according to Eldesmarque, it appears Spanish national team coach Luis de la Fuente has not ruled out Dani Carvajal completely just yet.
Despite his struggles with injuries and fitness this season, Carvajal is rated highly due to his experience and winning mentality.
In fact, Carvajal is seen a guaranteed starter for La Roja by the manager if he can get back to full fitness and start playing regularly for Real Madrid as well.
De la Fuente values the qualities and the leadership Carvajal brings to the table and is, therefore, willing to wait for the veteran defender.
As for Carvajal himself, he has to pick up his fitness levels soon, having now fallen behind Federico Valverde, Trent and even the young David Jimenez in the pecking order.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
