CORNERFLICK
Dani Carvajal has praised Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior in an interview with AS, while saying he still misses Real Madrid’s big Champions League nights.
Ronaldo’s confidence in Europe
Carvajal said Ronaldo used to tell him in major Champions League games to send the ball towards the penalty area because he would be there. He described the Portuguese forward as a “real hunter” in the box and said no one who did not see him at Madrid could fully grasp how good he was.
The Getafe defender also backed Ronaldo to reach 1,000 official goals, saying he deserved it because of his discipline and work rate.
Mbappé and Vinicius
Carvajal called Mbappé “a real monster” after the French forward’s display in the latest El Clásico. He said Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí had stopped him in several situations, but Mbappé still found ways past defenders with pace and strength.
He also defended Vinicius, describing him as a good person who brings joy to the dressing room and does not hide when games get difficult. Carvajal said recent doubts around the Brazilian are normal, but added that he has signed a new contract and has many years left.
Missing the Bernabéu nights
The 34-year-old said he would pay a lot to relive one of Madrid’s famous comeback nights at the Santiago Bernabéu. He recalled the atmosphere changing when six minutes of stoppage time were announced.
Carvajal, who left Madrid last summer after years at the club, said he still nearly takes the wrong route in the morning and heads for Valdebebas out of habit. He added that watching the derby from outside the pitch felt different, but said Madrid sent a strong message with their performance.