Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that veteran defender Dani Carvajal has picked up a serious injury in the game against Villarreal on Saturday. The Spanish right-back had to be substituted late in the game as Los Blancos claimed a 2-0 league win over the Yellow Submarine.
Carvajal began the game at right-back for Real Madrid, helping his side maintain a shut-out. With less than two minutes of regulation time remaining, however, the Spaniard was seen writhing on the floor and screaming in agony after a collision with Yeremy Pino. He was eventually stretchered off and was in tears as he left the pitch.
Carlo Ancelotti spoke about the Spanish defender in his post-match press conference, where he revealed that he had indeed suffered a serious injury. He said (via @Fabrizio Romano):
“Dani Carvajal has suffered a serious knee injury. We’re all very sad”.
Dani Carvajal has become the latest Real Madrid player to have suffered a serious injury since the start of last season. The experienced defender was replaced by compatriot and former winger Lucas Vazquez, who has been his side's backup right-back.
Carvajal joins David Alaba, Thibaut Courtois, Brahim Diaz, Dani Ceballos and youngster Joan Martinez on the treatment table. The defender is expected to miss many games for Los Blancos once the club returns to action after the international break.
Vinicius Jr picks up injury in Real Madrid win over Villarreal
Brazil star Vinicius Jr left the pitch in a worrying sight for his Real Madrid teammates and coach in the 2-0 win over Villarreal. He was spotted holding his shoulder after a collision late in the game.
Vinicius was named in the club's starting XI for the visit of Villarreal, and he justified his inclusion with a fine display. The forward scored in the 73rd minute, his side's second goal, which sealed the three points for them. Six minutes after his goal, the forward left the pitch to be replaced by Arda Guler as he felt shoulder discomfort.
Vinicius has now recorded four goals and four assists in nine LaLiga appearances this season. The fitness of the forward will be a key topic for his manager and teammates, with the international break set to provide a bit of respite.