Real Madrid kicked off La Liga at home against Osasuna and secured a narrow victory by the smallest margin in an intense match. The fans celebrated Kylian Mbappé's goal from the penalty spot, which ended up giving them the three points. However, the final attention focused on a specific episode that caused more unease than joy.
Santiago Bernabéu experienced a special afternoon with the reappearance of Dani Carvajal, who returned after a long period of absence. After almost a year out due to a serious knee injury, he once again felt the warmth of the crowd. His entrance onto the field in the second half was met with a standing ovation.
The Madrid-born full-back replaced Alexander-Arnold and had thirty minutes to regain his feel on the field. During that time, he showed intensity, desire, and confidence in every defensive action. It seemed like a dream comeback, until an incident radically changed the tone of the afternoon.
Carvajal, Real Madrid and the moment that set off all the alarms
In the midst of the match, Dani Carvajal suffered an action that chilled the blood of the white fans. The play was so dramatic that for a moment everyone feared the worst. It wasn't just a simple collision, but a contact that could've compromised his physical integrity.
The one responsible for that harsh action was Catena, who went in forcefully and ended up colliding directly with the Madrid-born player. The challenge caused an unsettling silence at Santiago Bernabéu. Many feared that Carvajal would suffer another serious injury.
Catena and the action that could've been very costly
Fortunately, Dani Carvajal was able to get back up after the blow, although the worried faces among his teammates and the coaching staff were evident. The Madrid-born player continued on the field, but the scare lingered in everyone's mind. Catena, the protagonist of the action, was singled out by the stands due to the unnecessary roughness.
This episode served as a reminder of how delicate Carvajal's physical condition still is. After months of effort and recovery, a single isolated action almost ruined all that work. The tension at Bernabéu was palpable until the final whistle.
Carvajal, Osasuna and the importance of taking care with the comeback
Real Madrid's victory over Osasuna took a back seat after the blow suffered by Carvajal. The full-back needs confidence and minutes, but also protection and caution. His case shows how difficult it is to return after a long-term injury.
Madridists left with mixed feelings: joy for the three points, but concern for the health of a key figure on the right flank. Carvajal proved that he still has much to contribute, although every blow reopens old wounds. The immediate future will depend on how he recovers after this tough challenge.