Real Madrid to split with captain Dani Carvajal after 13 seasons, 27 titles
May 18 (UPI) -- Captain Dani Carvajal's tenure with Real Madrid will end at the conclusion of the 2025-26 campaign, the Spanish La Liga soccer franchise announced Monday.
The veteran right back will appear in his final game with Los Blancos on Saturday, when they host Athletic Club in their last La Liga match of the season.
"Real Madrid C.F. and our captain Dani Carvajal have agreed to bring an end to a wonderful chapter as a player of our club at the conclusion of the current season," Madrid said in a statement.
"Real Madrid wishes to express its gratitude and affection to one of the greatest legends of our club and world football."
Carvajal's contract expires in June. The 34-year-old Spanish defender joined Los Blancos in 2002. He won 27 titles over 23 seasons with the club.
"One of the most difficult moments of my life has arrived," Carvajal wrote for the caption on an Instagram video, which featured highlights from his run at Madrid.
"This weekend, I will wear our jersey for the very last time."
Carvajal, who battled injuries in recent years, appeared in just 23 games in 2025-26. He did not log a goal or assist in 16 La Liga appearances. He totaled 14 scores over 450 career matches for Los Blancos.
"Dani Carvajal is a legend and a symbol of Real Madrid and its academy," Madrid president Florentino Perez said. "His image alongside our beloved and remembered Alfredo Di Stefano laying the first stone of Ciudad Real Madrid will forever remain in the hearts of all Madridistas and in the history of our club.
"Carvajal has always exemplified the values of Real Madrid. This is and will always be his home."
Carvajal's trophy haul with Madrid includes six European Cups, six Club World Cups, five UEFA Super Cups, four La Liga crowns, four Spanish Super Cups and two Copa del Rey titles.
"Only those who have stood inside this stadium can truly understand the magic felt when this club defies the impossible," Carvajal said on Instagram.
Madrid will pay tribute to Carvajal on Saturday at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
Copyright 2026 UPI News Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
This story was originally published May 18, 2026 at 8:17 AM.