Spanish left-back Alvaro Carreras has joined Benfica’s squad traveling to the United States for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, despite ongoing transfer negotiations with Real Madrid.
The 22-year-old, a former Madrid academy graduate, remains at the heart of a high-stakes deal between the Portuguese giants and Los Blancos, who are eager to bolster their left-back options ahead of the tournament. This article explores the latest developments in Carreras’ career journey and the implications for both clubs as the competition approaches.
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Negotiation Details Stall, But Transfer Talks Continue
Real Madrid and Benfica have been engaged in intense discussions over the transfer of Alvaro Carreras, with the player’s €50 million release clause at the center of the dispute. While both sides initially aimed to finalize the deal last week, progress has slowed due to disagreements on how to split the payment. According to club insiders speaking to Managing Madrid, “Real Madrid are confident that they will sign Carreras ahead of the June 10th deadline set for clubs participating in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.”
This looming deadline intensifies the pressure on the clubs to reach an agreement swiftly, especially as the competition’s start date draws near. Although no official contract has been signed yet, it is clear Madrid views Carreras as a crucial reinforcement to address weaknesses on the left flank.
Left-Back Weakness Drives Madrid’s Interest
Real Madrid’s current squad faces a significant challenge in the left-back position. Ferland Mendy remains sidelined due to injury, leaving Fran Garcia as the sole dependable option. To bolster their defensive depth, Madrid has prioritized securing Carreras, hoping the Spanish defender can provide a substantial upgrade.
Carreras’ potential addition would enable Madrid to field a stronger lineup in the Club World Cup, improving tactical flexibility and squad balance. The left-back spot is the main weakness in Real Madrid’s roster, underscoring why the club is pushing hard to complete this transfer.
Benfica’s Club World Cup Plans and Carreras’ Role
Despite Madrid’s clear interest, Benfica has included Carreras in their squad traveling to the US. The Portuguese side will rely on him to compete in a challenging group stage that includes Boca Juniors, Auckland City, and Bayern Munich. Benfica kicks off their tournament campaign against Boca Juniors on June 16, followed by matches on June 20 and June 24.
Reports from The Athletic in May noted, “Madrid were in talks with the Lisbon club to re-sign their former academy graduate,” but no formal agreement has yet been reached. Given the current situation, Carreras is expected to represent Benfica throughout the competition unless a last-minute transfer is completed.
Carreras’ Journey from Madrid Academy to Benfica
Alvaro Carreras originally emerged through Real Madrid’s youth system, training with the academy between 2017 and 2019. After leaving Madrid, he joined Manchester United, though he never made a senior appearance for the English club. Now at Benfica, Carreras is developing into a key talent with impressive potential, attracting interest from his former club.
Madrid’s acquisition strategy ahead of the tournament has already included the signings of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. Alongside Carreras, other left-back targets such as Milos Kerkez (Bournemouth) and Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen) are being considered to strengthen the squad.
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FAQs
Why hasn’t the transfer of Alvaro Carreras to Real Madrid been finalized yet?
Negotiations stalled due to disagreements over how to distribute Carreras’ €50 million release clause between Benfica and Madrid.
Is Carreras expected to play for Benfica or Real Madrid in the Club World Cup?
As of now, Carreras is traveling with Benfica and is expected to play for them unless the transfer is completed before June 10.
Why is Real Madrid eager to sign Carreras?
Madrid has a significant weakness at left-back due to Ferland Mendy’s injury and limited options in that position, making Carreras a priority target.
What is Carreras’ history with Real Madrid?
He is a former academy player who trained at Madrid from 2017 to 2019 before moving to Manchester United and later Benfica.
Who are the other left-back targets Real Madrid is considering?
Besides Carreras, Madrid is also eyeing Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth and Alejandro Grimaldo from Bayer Leverkusen.
