Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has offered a candid update on Dani Carvajal's international future, suggesting the Real Madrid veteran may need to earn back his place in the squad after a challenging season marked by physical setbacks.
Speaking at the presentation of his new autobiography in Madrid, De la Fuente struck a supportive but realistic tone when discussing the 33-year-old right-back, who has been a cornerstone of both club and country for over a decade.
"He's a true captain," De la Fuente said. "We hope he recovers soon. I spoke with him yesterday, and it's nothing serious. But he needs time to show his true potential."
The comments come as Carvajal navigates a difficult campaign at the Santiago Bernabéu, where injuries have disrupted his rhythm and limited his minutes during crucial stretches. Even when fit, the Spanish defender has found himself watching from the bench as Trent Alexander-Arnold has taken the starting role—a stark reminder of the fierce competition at the highest level.
De la Fuente didn't shy away from the tough questions, acknowledging that Carvajal's place in La Roja's setup is no longer guaranteed. "We'll see if he can prove it and gets the chance," the coach added. "Just as I brought him to the national team, he'll understand if I have to make the opposite decision now."
For fans who have watched Carvajal grow from a promising academy graduate into a Champions League and European Championship winner, the uncertainty is sobering. Yet De la Fuente's words also carried a thread of optimism, reflecting the belief that experience and resilience often prevail.
"I hope he recovers and gets back to his best, because we'll all be happy," the Spain boss concluded.
As the international break approaches, all eyes will be on Carvajal's fitness and form—both for his club and for a national team that values his leadership and big-game pedigree. Whether he can reclaim his spot in De la Fuente's plans will depend on the coming weeks, but one thing is clear: the road back to the top requires patience, hard work, and a little bit of faith.