Getafe bolsters midfield with Dani Carvajal, six Champions Leagues and a Euro

In the corridors of the Coliseum stadium, Orel Mangala smiles again upon seeing Dani Carvajal arrive, one of the most decorated players in Spain, ready to share his experience with the Red Devil.

A surprising yet free transfer

The Red Devil club officially announced the arrival of Dani Carvajal, released by Real Madrid this summer. The 34‑year‑old full‑back, without a contract since this summer, chose Getafe in mid‑October, which may be surprising but is explained by his freedom to sign wherever he wished.

After thirteen seasons and 451 matches wearing the Real Madrid shirt, Carvajal discovers for the first time another La Liga club. Trained at the White House before joining Bayer Leverkusen, he now signs until next June.

An unmatched résumé at the Madrid club

In thirteen seasons with Real Madrid, Dani Carvajal won six Champions Leagues and four Spanish league titles, the most impressive trophy cabinet ever displayed by Getafe. He also has 51 caps for Spain, with Euro 2024 and the 2023 Nations League to his credit.

Carvajal joins Getafe on 2027 deal after Real Madrid glory

Last season, Carvajal often wore the captain's armband at Real Madrid, but missed many games due to a recurring knee injury.

For Orel Mangala, 28, this new teammate represents a learning opportunity. After tough spells at Olympique Lyonnais and Everton, and a serious cruciate ligament injury, the Belgian, loaned from Lyon, has established himself as a starter in the heart of Getafe's midfield.

Under coach Domenico Tedesco, Mangala became a regular member of the Red Devils' core, with thirteen starts. However, his injury prevented Rudi Garcia from selecting him further.

Getafe chase Carvajal while preparing another bombshell

Carvajal's signing brings Getafe a dose of rare experience, giving Mangala and the other young players at the club the chance to learn alongside a Champions League winner and a Euro champion.