In an interview with Esquire magazine, Dani Carvajal shared his deep-seated fears about life after football. The 32-year-old Spanish right-back, currently recovering from a knee injury, expressed his anxiety about the future.
Football as an Escape
For many players, football serves as an escape. While some stumble upon the sport by chance, others work tirelessly to succeed. However, the time allotted for a professional football career is relatively short. Injuries can significantly impact an athlete's career, and when the next generation is not assured, the post-career transition can be challenging.
Carvajal's Concerns
Dani Carvajal, nearing the end of his contract with Real Madrid, is approaching the final stages of his career. In his conversation with Esquire, Carvajal confessed his fears about life after football.
"Thinking about life after football makes me panic. The idea of waking up and not going to training scares me. I cherish every moment: being with my teammates, doing gym sessions, chatting in the physio room... because I know it will end, and I must make the most of it," he said.
Carvajal's Future Plans
Although he plans to return to the pitch in time for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, Carvajal emphasized that he will not retire when his contract with Real Madrid expires in June 2026.
"I'm already 32. I'm not a kid anymore. What's left for me? Maybe four or five years of football? Time flies quickly," he added.
Carvajal's Return and Potential Departure
Carvajal's primary objective is to recover in time for the Club World Cup. However, he may consider leaving Real Madrid in the coming months to secure a lucrative offer from Qatar, ensuring his financial stability post-retirement.
As with many Real Madrid legends in recent years, Carvajal is unlikely to decline a substantial offer from the Gulf region, given his difficulties in envisioning life after football.