Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho hailed Ricardo Carvalho after victory over Real Sociedad.
Mourinho admits Carvalho has no chance of earning a new deal, but was delighted with the veteran's commitment.
"He had a great match, I don't like to pick out individuals. Everyone did a great job, but Ricardo was especially good because his situation is special," said Mourinho.
"We have decided that it is the last year of his contract and that it won't be renewed. We are banking on Pepe and Ramos as our centre backs and then Albiol as a Spanish player and Varane as a youngster. But he stayed and we knew that when he was needed that he would respond."