According to GOAL’s report on Friday, October 16, 2026, Dani Carvajal has explained why he chose Getafe after bringing his trophy-laden spell at Real Madrid to an end. The veteran defender said the chance to keep competing while staying in his hometown made the decision straightforward.

Carvajal enjoyed considerable success at the Santiago Bernabéu, collecting numerous major honours with Los Blancos. After recent injury problems, however, the 34-year-old is now looking to secure regular minutes and regain his best form at Getafe.

At his presentation, Carvajal said Getafe’s project appealed to him on both a professional and personal level. He also stressed that remaining in Madrid, where he grew up, mattered to him, and that he hoped to use his experience to support his new teammates.

“I see this as a positive experience, and I’m not thinking about judging it at the end of the season. This is a project that really motivates me. Competing is part of who I am. I’m at home, in Madrid, where I grew up. Everything feels right: I can help with my experience, my style of play and what I bring to the group,” he said.

The Spanish defender also spoke highly of Getafe coach José Bordalás, saying he knows how to bring out the best in his players. Carvajal believes their shared work ethic and competitive outlook will help him settle in quickly.

He acknowledged that his Getafe contract is less lucrative than his previous deal with Real Madrid, but said salary was not his main concern. Instead, he wanted to join a team where he could compete regularly.

His injury history was another factor in the move, as he hopes to regain the consistency he has lacked in recent seasons. Carvajal has not ruled out a return to Spain’s national team, believing that strong performances for Getafe could keep him in contention.

Having achieved so much at Real Madrid, Carvajal now faces a new challenge. His first priorities are to stay fit, earn a place in the side and show that he can still perform at a high level in Spanish football.