Real Madrid veteran Dani Carvajal has revealed that the club is facing challenges in creating a harmonious attacking partnership between their star forwards, Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr, Soccernet.football reports.
Despite the high expectations following Mbappe’s arrival from Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer this summer, the trio’s chemistry on the pitch has been slow to develop.
Speaking during Spain’s international break, Carvajal acknowledged the difficulties the team has encountered in finding the right balance in attack.
“Both Vini and Kylian or Rodry [Rodrygo] are players who like to drop to the left wing and not stick so much to the right,” the 33-year-old explained as per Sport. “That they end up understanding each other is a matter of time. The important thing is to find a balance, and that will come soon.”
Mbappe made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut in the UEFA Super Cup against Atalanta, but struggled to find the net in La Liga, going three games without a goal before a brace against Real Betis ended his drought.
Real Madrid, however, still trail archrivals Barcelona by four points at the top of the table, with a lack of goals contributing to their slower start to the season.
Carvajal, an experienced campaigner, is unfazed by this early challenge. “There’s been four games. This is a long-distance race, and now the calendar is tightening. The games are demanding, and they [Barcelona] will surely drop points,” he remarked, urging patience.
Carvajal has also had a standout year, earning a spot on the 30-man shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
Reflecting on his nomination, he said, “It is only because I am nominated for the Ballon d’Or that it is a great success because I’ve had a great year. Above all, I want to enjoy the gala and hopefully hear my name.”
With his contract set to expire in 2025, Carvajal hinted at his future plans, stating, “If all parties agree, I want to renew and prolong my career at Real Madrid… After my time at Madrid, I wouldn’t like to play for any club in Europe out of respect.”
He left open the possibility of a move to the United States or Saudi Arabia if he doesn’t retire at the Spanish giants.