Real Madrid Legend Dani Carvajal Returns to Football With La Liga Side

Last summer, club legend Dani Carvajal left Real Madrid after 23 years (of the last 24), upon the expiration of his contract. 

He got the farewell he very much deserved in the final game of the season, against Athletic Club at the Bernabeu. He was taken off in the 84th minute of the game to allow a standing ovation from the supporters. Before that, in true Carvajal style, he had registered a fantastic assist for Gonzalo Garcia to open the scoring 12 minutes into the game. 

Perhaps surprisingly to some, the 34-year old had been without a club since leaving, with many wondering if he would perhaps go to Fulham with Alvaro Arbeloa, or go to enjoy a last pay day in MLS, the Saudi Pro League, the Qatari Stars League and so and so forth.  

Well, it turns out his next destination is much, much closer to home than any of the aforementioned suggestions. Indeed so, as it has today (Tuesday, the 13th of October) been officially confirmed that Carvajal has joined fellow Madrid based side Getafe of La Liga. 

The deal had been in the works for a week or two, but there were some concerns that La Liga would not allow the deal to go ahead. However, all of the smaller details were successfully ironed out, and the veteran full-back was officially announced by Getafe. 

You can completely understand why this sort of move would appeal to him. Not only can he stay playing in Spain, and in La Liga, but also in Madrid. He won't even need to move house. It is the perfect club for him both professionally and personally. 

Getafe will play their first ever game in the UEFA Conference League this Thursday, when they play Universitatea Craiova of Romania away from home at 18:45 CEST. That game will surely not be his debut considering fitness and registration doubts, but he could play a part in their next La Liga game at home to another Madrid side in Rayo Vallecano on Monday at 21:00 CEST. 

A date to put in your diaries is the third of January (or some other time that weekend), when Carvajal will return to the Bernabeu for the first time, for Getafe's match day 18 visit. The reverse fixture will take place on the 18th of April (or some other time that weekend). 

No doubt all Real Madrid fans wish him the very best of luck on this new, local adventure.