Real Madrid News
‘You will be sorely missed’ – Real Madrid midfielder pays emotional tribute to Dani Carvajal
The curtain is finally coming down on one of the greatest careers in Real Madrid history as Dani Carvajal prepares to leave the club at the end of the season.
After more than two decades linked to Real Madrid, the veteran full-back will officially say goodbye to the Santiago Bernabeu following an unforgettable journey that turned him into one of the most decorated defenders in modern football.
The emotional farewell has already triggered reactions from across the football world, but one of the most touching tributes came from young midfielder Arda Guler, who used social media to honour the Spanish defender’s extraordinary legacy.
The Turkish international described Carvajal as “the best right-back in the history of football” while thanking him for the lessons he passed down inside the dressing room.
Arda Guler’s emotional tribute
Carvajal’s departure officially marks the end of an incredible era at Real Madrid.
The Spaniard first arrived at the club’s academy back in 2002 before eventually becoming one of the defining players of the modern generation.
Across 24 years connected to Real Madrid, he built a legacy few defenders in football history can match.
He leaves after making 450 appearances for the first team while lifting six Champions League trophies.
However, apart from the silverware, teammates have always called attention to his leadership and competitive personality as some of his greatest qualities.
That is exactly what Guler focused on while paying tribute to the veteran defender.
“To the best right-back in the history of football. It was a privilege to share the pitch with a legend like you.
“Your determination to win every match and your refusal to accept anything less than perfection in every training session taught me so much about what it means to be a Real Madrid player.
“Thank you for your leadership, humility and passion. You will be sorely missed,” the Turk wrote.
The final hurray
Carvajal’s 2025/26 season has not been without problems. Recurring injuries combined with the arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold significantly reduced his role inside the squad.
Still, this weekend’s clash against Athletic Bilbao will now become even more emotional, as Carvajal prepares to captain Real Madrid one final time at the stadium he has called home for most of his life.
On Saturday, the Bernabeu will say goodbye to one of the defining leaders of an unforgettable era.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
