Real Madrid have completed the €50 million signing of Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, bringing the talented left-back back to his boyhood club.
The 22-year-old returns to the Bernabéu after a standout season in Portugal and is expected to strengthen Madrid’s backline ahead of a crucial campaign. With a six-year deal signed, Carreras is seen as a long-term solution to the club’s ongoing left-back concerns.
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Real Madrid Bring Álvaro Carreras Home in Blockbuster €50M Transfer from Benfica
Real Madrid have officially brought Álvaro Carreras back to the Santiago Bernabéu, signing the promising Spanish left-back from Benfica in a €50 million deal. The 22-year-old has inked a six-year contract with Los Blancos, signaling a major investment in the club’s defensive future.
This homecoming marks a significant chapter for Carreras, who spent his formative years at Madrid’s academy before departing for Manchester United in 2020. After four years away—spanning loan spells at Preston North End, Granada, and a standout season at Benfica—Carreras returns not only as a seasoned professional but as the club’s preferred long-term solution at left-back.
“I left Madrid as a boy and return as a man,” Carreras declared at his unveiling. “It’s the happiest day of my life. I’m back where I belong.”
Carreras: Madrid’s Chosen One for the Left
Real Madrid have long grappled with inconsistency at the left-back position. While Ferland Mendy has struggled with recurring injuries, Fran García failed to establish himself last season. Carreras’ name had been circled early on by Madrid’s scouting department as the ideal candidate to fill the void.
The Spain Under-21 international had an exceptional 2024–25 campaign with Benfica, featuring in 32 Primeira Liga matches and making 10 appearances in the UEFA Champions League. His ability to blend attacking intent with defensive reliability caught the attention of top European clubs, but it was Real Madrid who ultimately won the race for his signature.
A Homegrown Talent Returns
Carreras’ journey is a full-circle story that mirrors Madrid’s renewed focus on youth development and long-term planning. Born in Spain, he spent three years at La Fábrica, Madrid’s famed youth academy, alongside other future stars like Raúl Asencio, before heading to England for a stint with Manchester United.
Despite never making a senior appearance for United, his loan moves were instrumental in his growth. A breakout spell at Benfica, initially on loan before a permanent move, showcased his maturity and potential at the highest levels of European football.
“This transfer is about more than just football. It’s emotional,” Carreras said. “I’m opening a gigantic door, and I’m ready for the challenge.”
A New Defensive Era at Real Madrid
Carreras’ arrival marks the third major defensive signing of the summer for Madrid. Earlier, the club confirmed the acquisitions of Dutch center-back Dean Huijsen and England international right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold. These moves are part of a strategic overhaul of the back line after a disappointing 2024–25 season in which Madrid ended trophyless.
They finished second to Barcelona in La Liga, lost the Copa del Rey final, and crashed out in the Champions League quarterfinals. To add to the sting, they were eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals of the Club World Cup.
President Florentino Pérez and newly appointed manager, former club legend Xabi Alonso appear determined to restore Madrid’s dominance, beginning with a solid and modern defensive unit.
Expectations on Carreras’ Shoulders
With a hefty price tag and a long contract, Carreras is not just a squad addition—he’s expected to be a cornerstone. Madrid fans will hope his familiarity with the club’s culture, coupled with his top-level experience in Portugal and Europe, will help him settle quickly.
For Carreras, the return is deeply personal and aspirational. He’s not just filling a position; he’s fulfilling a dream. Now, he must prove that he belongs among the Galácticos—and that he’s the long-awaited answer to Madrid’s left-back question.
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FAQs
Who is Álvaro Carreras?
Álvaro Carreras is a 22-year-old Spanish left-back who previously played for Benfica and Manchester United. He returns to Real Madrid in 2025.
What is the transfer fee for Álvaro Carreras?
Real Madrid signed Carreras for €50 million on a six-year contract.
Why did Real Madrid sign Carreras?
With injury woes for Ferland Mendy and inconsistency from Fran García, Madrid needed a long-term solution at left-back. Carreras impressed with Benfica and fits that role.
When did Carreras play for Real Madrid before?
He was part of Madrid’s youth academy (La Fábrica) before joining Manchester United in 2020.
What are Carreras’ strengths as a player?
He combines pace, defensive awareness, and attacking support—traits that suit Madrid’s tactical approach under Ancelotti.
