The Real Madrid defender will feature in next week's La Liga clash with Alaves. Carvajal, 31, has not played since his calf injury in the 3-0 La Liga win over Granada earlier this season. The veteran Spaniard has been ruled out for the first time this year.

But Relevo reports that Carvajal could feature in Madrid's final annual game against Alaves. Rodra tweeted a translation from Spanish that Carvajal's soleus has recovered and players can feature this year. His last game on December 21: "More good news for Real Madrid. Carvajal could arrive for the game against Alavés.

His recovery is going well and he has not been ruled out for this year's final. The 31-year-old has made nearly 400 appearances for Madrid since 2013. He was initially expected to qualify for the Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid next month. But Madrid are happy to have him back ahead of schedule.