Real Madrid Strengthens Defense with Alvaro Fernandez Carreras
Real Madrid has solidified its defensive lineup by securing the services of Alvaro Fernandez Carreras, a talented 22-year-old left-back from Benfica, for a significant €50 million on a six-year contract. This acquisition is part of the club’s ambitious rebuilding effort, following the arrivals of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, which collectively cost over £100 million.
Career Highlights and Transfer Complications
Carreras, who dazzled in the previous season with nine goal contributions—four goals and five assists—in 50 appearances for Benfica, has quickly emerged as one of the most coveted left-backs in European football. While Real Madrid aimed to finalize the transfer before the upcoming Club World Cup, Benfica insisted that Carreras participate in the tournament before his departure to Madrid, complicating the logistics.
This transfer marks a notable chapter in Carreras’ career, which has seen a dramatic transformation since his initial stint at the Real Madrid academy from 2017 to 2020. After that period, he joined Manchester United but was ultimately let go, leaving Madrid to invest heavily in a player they once lost for free. An anonymous source from Madrid’s academy remarked, “Many at the club have to hide now: how can a boy who left like that cost you €50m today?”
From Humble Beginnings to Stardom
The journey from Ferrol, Galicia to the grand stages of Real Madrid is remarkable. Born in 2003 to a family deeply rooted in their close-knit community, Carreras developed his early football skills at Racing Ferrol, where he caught the attention of talent scouts due to his impressive physical attributes and technical skills.
After moving through various youth clubs and showcasing his potential at Deportivo La Coruna, where he played alongside future professionals, Real Madrid began to closely monitor him. At the age of 14, Carreras made the leap to Madrid, where he was able to hone his talents despite the challenges of adapting to a new city and lifestyle. He excelled in his first three years, clinching league titles, though he faced obstacles during his final season with the club, which ultimately led to his departure to Manchester United for a lucrative deal.
Development and Return to Madrid
While at United, he continued to develop, collecting accolades such as the under-23 player of the year award in 2022, but struggled to solidify a permanent spot on the first team. After a season on loan at Preston North End and another with Granada, where he was eager to build on his experience, Carreras found himself on the move again as United opted for an alternative player for their left-back position.
In Lisbon with Benfica, Carreras thrived, earning valuable experience on the Champions League stage and impressing against top opponents, including Barcelona. Despite initial interest from multiple clubs, Real Madrid recognized his potential and prioritized bringing him back. This is a significant turnaround for a player who was once deemed not required and released by the academy.
A Key Part of Madrid’s Future
Carreras’ move back is not only a personal triumph but also a key part of Xabi Alonso’s vision for the club’s future, as the team looks to integrate fresh talent into its iconic lineup. With his determination and skills, Carreras is poised to play a crucial role in Madrid’s ambitions moving forward.
