Dani Carvajal on Coaching Change at Real Madrid
Dani Carvajal, the captain of Real Madrid, has offered his thoughts on the recent coaching change within the club, labeling the transition from Carlo Ancelotti to Xabi Alonso as a “necessary change.” Following a disappointing 2024-25 season during which Madrid secured no major trophies under Ancelotti’s guidance, the team is currently flourishing at the top of LaLiga, winning all three of their opening matches this season.
Training Environment Under Xabi Alonso
Carvajal, who spent the majority of the last season sidelined with a significant knee injury, expressed his satisfaction about the training environment under Alonso, stating there seems to be a stronger focus on discipline in comparison to Ancelotti’s more lenient approach. In a recent interview with Cadena SER while on international duty with Spain, he reflected:
“Carlo’s cycle had come to its end. We all needed something new. With Xabi, we’ve started well, embracing new ideas, although there’s still a long way to go to achieve our best performance.”
Coaching Styles Comparison
Ancelotti’s tenure at Madrid saw him becoming the most successful manager in the club’s history, amassing a total of 15 trophies, including three Champions League titles, before taking over as coach of the Brazilian national team.
In another conversation with COPE radio, Carvajal highlighted the differing coaching styles between the two managers, saying:
“Every coach has their own working style, and generational differences play a role too. We had more freedom with Carlo; we could afford to be a bit late, and while he would get upset, Xabi’s approach is certainly more disciplined.”
New Signings and Competition
This summer, Real Madrid brought in four new players, including notable acquisition Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has already started in two league matches. Carvajal acknowledged the healthy competition for the right-back position, remarking:
“Considering I’m 32 and coming off a serious injury, it’s completely understandable to have competition. I appreciate that Madrid chose to extend my contract right after my injury; I recognize I won’t be here forever.”
He complimented Alexander-Arnold, saying:
“He’s a good lad. It’s tough competition, but it’s beneficial for both of us, as we offer different qualities. It’s a positive challenge for the club and the coach.”
Friendship with Rodri
Additionally, Carvajal touched upon his friendship with Manchester City’s Rodri, another player linked to a potential move to Madrid, as the Spain squad prepares to face Bulgaria and Turkey this week. He stated:
“He’s a great player, and I hope he can join us in the future, but I understand he’s keen to show his commitment and repay City’s faith in him after his injury.”
