The recurring threat of cruciate ligament injuries, now affecting Dani Carvajal, has caused alarm in Valdebebas. In just over 14 months, there have been seven cases among Real Madrid’s first team and standout youth players who have been involved with the seniors. It has become a full-fledged curse.

The series of unfortunate events began on August 10th last year with Thibaut Courtois. A sudden collision resulted in a severe knee injury, with the Belgian keeper collapsing in pain. The diagnosis was a torn cruciate ligament. Barely three days later, Militao suffered a similar fate in Bilbao, adding to the team’s misfortune.

Things worsened on December 17th, when David Alaba tore his cruciate ligament at the Bernabéu against Villarreal. His injury was compounded by damage to the meniscus and tendons. "I’ve never seen anything like this in my career," remarked Carlo Ancelotti, reflecting on the situation.

Though Courtois and Militao made successful returns, the curse resurfaced during this summer's preseason, spreading its reach to the youth academy. First, promising talent Mesonero went down in early July, followed by César Palacios, who tore his ligament after just seven minutes in a friendly against Milan. Then Joan Martínez, the highly rated defender who had impressed Ancelotti, fell victim in August. Now, the latest casualty is Carvajal.

Real Madrid’s medical department has been left grappling with this seemingly endless run of injuries, casting a dark shadow over the club.

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