Carvajal: “We instill fear and terror in our rivals when the anthem plays”

Dani Carvajal (Leganés, Madrid, 1992) talks to EFE on the brink of what could be another historic day in his sporting career. On Saturday, at Wembleyagainst him Borussia Dortmund, is chasing his sixth Champions League. A competitive territory Real Madrid. “We instill fear and dread in our rivals when the anthem plays,” said the defender.

A match in which the world of football agrees on one thing: Real Madrid is the favorite. Something that does not scare them, because, for Carvajal, there are “few scenarios” in which the group does not. In addition, it defines its technician, Carlo Ancelottias “the key to success”, emphasizes the strength of the group to reach the final and avoids talking about the possible inclusion of Kylian Mbappé in a club that puts “fear” in its rivals.

Ancelotti is optimistic. How do you see the team heading into the final?

I can see the team very well. With great desire and with great enthusiasm. The last few weeks have passed slowly with the League already won and this match just around the corner. But the first day is here and we are really looking forward to it.

How do you manage that everyone considers you the big favorite?

Do you know what’s going on? That in very few scenarios Real Madrid are not favourites. Against any rival. We know that behind closed doors we are not, at all. Dortmund is in the final on its own merits. They eliminated very strong rivals, they managed to get ahead of a group with a very difficult level and we have to do things very well to beat them.

You can make history. With Modric they could be the only ones to play and win the European Cup six times, equaling Gento. Do you have a lot going on in your mind?

Think about it. It’s one of those finals that on a personal level can mean something very beautiful, something of the season. This final has a special plus for that reason.

On the doorstep of what could be their sixth Champions League. You who laid the first stone of Valdebebas. It’s hard to be bigger than Dani Carvajal at a club as important as Real Madrid…

Yes, it’s true that sometimes when I see my image printed on the quarry shelter I think that I hope it serves as an example for all the boys who want to fulfill a dream with this shirt, to take they me as a reference and see. that with much sacrifice and effort can be reached.

He is one step away from becoming Real Madrid’s first captain. How was your personal evolution until you felt ready for it? Have you discussed this with other historic club captains?

I still don’t think so. I’m one of the four captains now. I try to learn from everyone. From Iker -Casillas-, Sergio -Ramos-, Karim -Benzema-, Nacho in this case… doing the best in each one. I hope that the day I become the captain I have instilled some values ​​in the group and they take me as a reference. This is how I saw the captains when I had them. Make your companions comfortable and let them see that the captain of the ship is going to his death with everyone.

Do you ever see yourself with a cape celebrating titles?

No, far from it. I’ll leave it to Nacho, who I know will enjoy it more.

I think it’s hard to define yourself like that. But he has a historical track record. Do you think he is among the best right backs in history?

Well… I don’t like to define myself because I think it limits me. But it’s true that because of my career, being in a big club for many years and as a starter, and winning so many titles, as an important player, it’s very difficult. In time, you will appreciate what you ask me. But now I can be very happy and satisfied with what I have achieved.

He had a great season. And also in front of the goal. Have you done this especially, did the scheme help you…?

This year my confidence is very high. Also at a great level of experience. It’s true that sometimes the ball goes in and sometimes it doesn’t, but this year it’s gone in more and I’ve given assists as well. Very happy with the offensive contribution and I hope I can help again next Saturday.

On the defensive side this is the key. So is the goalkeeper. Ancelotti said he likes the debate and won’t reveal who will be the starting goalkeeper, but the best goalkeeper in the world, Courtois, is back. Does knowing that Courtoi is on target give you special security?

Both Andriy -Lunin- and Thibaut -Courtois- deserved to play in the final Kepa also did a fantastic job when it was his turn to play. The decision, the brown one, we will pass on to the coach. But it’s true that because of Thibaut’s size, it’s difficult for the rival, he’s number one. He is a fantastic goalkeeper. And whoever plays will give us great security.

We recently heard the cries of Courtois when he was injured at Valdebebas. Two days later, Militao fell, with a serious knee injury. In December it was Alaba. Karim left earlier… did you imagine yourself in the Champions League final?

It’s complicated. Because three of your bright starters have lasting injuries. Also Ceballos and Arda -Güler- with relapses, which did not end starting until Christmas…. This speaks about the work of the coach, who was able to bring us all together. That the players didn’t play in their natural position or in a place they didn’t like. We all contributed and it speaks volumes of what a group we are. That we are here today talking about the final is very good of the coach.

One of the main non-starter pieces is Lucas Vázquez. I thought you were hoping to renew it…

I hope he stays, that he renews for one year. Inside and outside it is an important piece for all of us. On a sporting level it is at an amazing level and I hope everyone can stay.

The one who won’t stay is Toni Kroos. It is said that Real Madrid does not know how to say goodbye to its legends, but Saturday was a very emotional farewell. How did you experience it?

He deserved it. Toni is a legend. He’s going to help us try to get that 15th and he’s had the farewell he deserves. Both he and his family had amazing years. He kept his word, Real Madrid will be his last shirt. Respect the moment in which you decide because it is complicated.

That moment was at its peak. There are others who have extended their careers, turned away from a competitive level… Do you have thoughts on how you would like to handle this situation?

It’s complicated. It is very difficult to find the exact point where you should retreat. This is the most difficult decision a footballer has to make. Right now I don’t think so, I have a contract. As soon as I see what the situation is, the moment… the perfect time to say goodbye to this club, I will let you know.

A club led by Carlo Ancelotti from the bench. Why is it so special?

Most of all, he is a wonderful person. On a personal level, no one could be displeased with him. And on a professional level he is a coach who has to make decisions and not fall for what everyone wants. But as a person he is incredible and he is the key to success in a group with successful players, with pride because we all want to play… It is difficult to manage and because the coach is incredible belief.

Talk about a group of successful players. History shows it, they are going for their sixth Champions League in ten years. How do you explain to people the gene that Real Madrid always has to compete?

At Real Madrid, the Champions League is very important to us. For our fans and for what the club is. We strike fear, terror, into our rivals when this great song plays. I can’t explain to you what’s going on, but we’re always there; we are always competing. We are very committed to what the Champions League is and wearing this shirt and putting it on in a Champions League match changes us all.

I know they are focused on the final, but in the last ‘Champions’, two years ago, Kylian Mbappé’s name was also flying in Valdebebas. But now it seems that the ending will be different. His arrival will inspire more fear than what he speaks to rivals…

Look, we’re focused on Saturday, as you say. What must come, will come. But now the most important thing is to get that 15th and focus on the final.