17 July, 2025
alvaro-carreras-from-real-madrid-academy-to-50m-star-return

Alvaro Fernandez Carreras has become a pivotal figure in Real Madrid’s defensive restructuring. The 22-year-old left-back has secured a six-year contract with the Spanish giants, returning from Benfica for a substantial €50 million fee. His signing follows the high-profile arrivals of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, marking a significant investment in Madrid’s backline.

Known simply as Carreras due to the commonality of the surname Fernandez in Spain, the young defender made a name for himself last season in Portugal. He recorded nine goal involvements in 50 matches, making him one of Europe’s most coveted left-backs. Real Madrid had been negotiating his return for weeks, aiming to finalize the deal before the Club World Cup. However, Benfica insisted on his participation in the tournament before sealing the transfer.

The Journey from Ferrol to Madrid

Carreras’ journey to the Santiago Bernabéu is a story of resilience and talent. Born in Ferrol, Galicia, in 2003, he was raised in a close-knit family. His father, Francisco, serves as a Civil Guard, while his mother, Paula, is a homemaker. Carreras’ early passion for football was evident at Racing Ferrol, where he quickly stood out for his skill and potential.

Juancar Fernandez, the then sporting director at Racing Ferrol, recalls Carreras’ early promise. “He always had a good physique and exceptional talent,” he said. “His power and elegance on the wing were evident from a young age.”

After stints at Galicia de Caranza and Deportivo La Coruna, Carreras caught the attention of Real Madrid scouts. At 14, he joined Madrid’s academy, where he developed rapidly despite the challenges of relocating to a new city.

From Academy Prospect to Professional Football

Carreras’ time at Real Madrid’s academy was marked by success, winning league titles from Under-15 to Under-17 levels. However, he struggled to make a significant impact in his final year, leading to his departure to Manchester United, who offered him a lucrative contract.

“He had a lot of courage, telling the club they didn’t believe in him,” said a source from Madrid. Despite a counter-offer, Carreras moved to England, joining United’s youth setup before Brexit restrictions on foreign under-18s took effect.

His tenure at United was fruitful, earning him the under-23 player of the year award in 2022. Yet, the arrival of Erik ten Hag as head coach marked a turning point. Carreras was valued for his offensive capabilities but was advised to gain more experience through a loan spell.

Loan Spells and the Rise at Benfica

Carreras’ loan to Preston North End in the Championship proved pivotal. He played 42 games, showcasing his ability as a wing-back and earning praise from manager Ryan Lowe. “He was like a real Englishman, always with a great attitude,” Lowe remarked.

Following his stint in England, Carreras moved to Granada on loan before joining Benfica. His performances in Lisbon, particularly against top-tier teams like Barcelona in the Champions League, solidified his reputation.

“Carreras was one of the few full-backs who went toe-to-toe with Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal,” noted a sports analyst.

Real Madrid’s interest reignited in March, with Carreras emerging as their top choice for the left-back position. Despite other options, including former academy player Miguel Gutierrez, Madrid prioritized Carreras, reflecting a shift in their recruitment strategy.

The Impact and Future Prospects

The acquisition of Carreras represents a significant investment in Madrid’s future. His return is a testament to his development and potential to become a cornerstone of Xabi Alonso’s team. The move also highlights the club’s willingness to invest heavily in former academy talents.

Benfica’s president, Rui Costa, played a crucial role in the negotiations, aware of the political implications of losing Carreras during an election year. Despite the challenges, Carreras’ dream of returning to Madrid has been realized.

As Carreras steps onto the pitch at the Santiago Bernabéu, he embodies the journey of a player who left for free only to return as a €50 million star. His story is one of perseverance, talent, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of football.