Dani Carvajal has suggested he is returning to light training out on the grass as he steps up his bid to return from an ACL injury.

The Real Madrid right-back suffered a gruesome knee injury back in October 2024 and was immediately suspected to need the rest of 2024/25 to recover after undergoing surgery.

163 days after the injury, however, Carvajal took to social media to hint at a return to grass training, aways a significant step in long-term injury rehab. A photo swapping regular shoes for his football boots was accompanied by the message: “I missed you so much.”

Just when Carvajal will be ready to return to competitive action remains to be seen. Back in December, he told Esquire of his plan to make his comeback in the Club World Cup this summer.

“That’s my goal,” he revealed. “At the beginning of June, it will be eight months since the surgery. We’ll see how everything progresses. The knee takes its time. I’m setting that as my goal, but as the date approaches, we’ll see if it’s feasible or not.”

During a media appearance in January, Carvajal even vowed to return at the peak of his powers.

“I have no doubt,” the 33-year-old responded when asked if he would still be in his prime when he eventually makes his Madrid comeback.

“[Recovery] is going very well, I’m making progress. I’m in excellent recovery time. I’ll try to get back as soon as possible. It won’t be up to me to make it to the World Cup.”