While the headlines after Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Mallorca focused on Arda Guler and Vinicius Jr., there was another figure whose contribution was just as decisive – Alvaro Carreras.
The young full-back showed his importance at the Santiago Bernabeu on a night that demanded personality and courage.
With thousands of fans watching, Carreras justified why Madrid spent €50 million to bring him back this summer.
A permanent fixture
Since his signing from Benfica, Carreras has started every La Liga game available, already collecting 270 minutes of action.
Far from being a player who needed time to adapt, the left-back has delivered in every performance.
Against Mallorca, he was outstanding both defensively and offensively. His impact stretched beyond just stopping goals, as he created them too.
It was Carreras’ perfectly measured cross that led to Real Madrid’s equaliser. Spotting Dean Huijsen at the far post, he delivered with accuracy.
Is Alvaro Carreras Real Madrid’s best summer signing this season? (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Huijsen’s header extended the ball into the danger area, and Guler calmly slotted home to bring Madrid level.
At 2-1, Carreras once again proved decisive. In the 66th minute, he made a vital block to deny Samu Costa’s powerful shot, a moment that settled nerves inside the Bernabeu.
Madrid’s new left-back leader
Carreras has wasted no time in taking command of Madrid’s left flank. What once looked like a gamble is quickly turning into one of the best transfer decisions of the summer.
In fact, statistics show that he has created six key passes across the first three league games, with 42.3% of Madrid’s attacking play now flowing through the left side.
His rise has direct consequences within the squad. Fran Garcia, who impressed in the Club World Cup, has been left without minutes, while Ferland Mendy continues to recover from injury.
After only three matches, Carreras has become Xabi Alonso’s clear first choice, making his €50 million fee look like a bargain.