Real Madrid finally sign a new starting left back

Real Madrid have taken a major step in rebuilding their defensive line by signing Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, per Fabrizio Romano. The deal is all but done, pending Manchester United’s decision not to activate their buy-back clause. Once that’s confirmed, Carreras will travel to Spain to finalize the move.

The verbal agreement between Real Madrid and Benfica is in place for a fee of €50 million, structured over multiple installments rather than a lump sum, reflecting Madrid’s preference for long-term financial flexibility. It’s a significant price for a fullback, and in many ways, a deal that shows Madrid were willing to bend to Benfica’s terms. But this isn’t just any signing — it’s a return, and a statement.

A forgotten talent finally breaks out

Carreras, now 22, was once part of Real Madrid’s academy. He left at a young age and eventually landed at Manchester United, where he never quite found his place in the senior squad. But his real breakout came in the 2024/25 season with Benfica, where he blossomed into one of Europe’s most exciting left backs.

The defining moment of Carreras’ rise came on the biggest stage: a Champions League masterclass against Atletico Madrid, Real’s fiercest rivals. In that match, Carreras dominated the flank, combining defensive intelligence with daring attacking runs. He was, quite simply, the best player on the pitch. And that performance wasn’t a one-off — he sustained a high level all season long.

A modern fullback tailor-made for Xabi Alonso

Carreras is a complete fullback, combining elite stamina and crossing ability with solid defensive fundamentals. At Benfica, he developed into a modern attacking fullback without compromising on positioning or work rate. He’s comfortable in both a back four and as a wing-back in a three, making him an ideal fit for Xabi Alonso’s tactical evolution at the Bernabéu.

His arrival adds crucial depth to a position that had been a question mark. Fran García’s resurgence under Alonso at the Club World Cup gave Real hope on the left flank, but Carreras now enters the conversation as a likely starter — or at the very least, a consistent option in a deep rotation.

Building a new-look Real Madrid defense

If Alonso does deploy a 3-5-2, Carreras and new right back Trent Alexander-Arnold offer Real Madrid elite wing-back options who can stretch the pitch and provide creativity from wide areas. For the first time in years, Madrid have real strength and balance on the flanks.

There will be some debate about the price. €50 million is steep, especially for a player with just one truly elite season under his belt. But Real Madrid are betting on continuity and upside. Carreras isn’t just a talent — he’s a Madridista in DNA, someone who understands the club, its demands, and the rivalry-laden roads ahead.

Madridistas should celebrate this ambition

For years, Real Madrid have ignored the need to refresh their backline. This summer, that’s changed. With Alexander-Arnold on one side and Carreras on the other, Madridistas can be excited about something they haven’t had in a while: a balanced, dynamic fullback pairing that matches the club’s ambitions.