In soccer, footballers' destinies change quickly, especially at major clubs like Real Madrid. In recent days, the future of the left flank at Bernabéu has taken an unexpected turn, surprising both insiders and outsiders.
The news is clear: neither Fran García nor Ferland Mendy, favorites for the position, are now the main candidates. Instead, a new name has emerged, one that until recently seemed distant.
An uncertain destiny for the left flank
The left back position at Real Madrid has always been of great importance at the club, and the Merengue club has been searching for months for the ideal footballer for that spot. Despite rumors placing Fran García as the solution, and Ferland Mendy's continued presence as a viable option, destiny has taken an unexpected turn.
During the Club World Cup, Real Madrid observed both its own footballers and those not yet signed. One of the names that stood out was Álvaro Carreras, Benfica's left back who has impressed on American soil (Estados Unidos).
Álvaro Carreras, the surprise of the Club World Cup
Carreras, who is currently playing in the Club World Cup with Benfica, has caught the attention of Real Madrid's coaching staff. Bruno Lage didn't rule out his departure: "Any footballer with Álvaro's performance can play for any team." However, despite the praise, negotiations between Benfica and Real Madrid are proving difficult due to economic differences.
Grimaldo, the signing no one expected
Given the difficulty of signing Carreras, Real Madrid has started to set its sights on a left back with extensive experience in the Bundesliga. This is Alejandro Grimaldo, a footballer who knows Xabi Alonso perfectly. The Madrid coach has had the Bayer Leverkusen left back in his squad, who, according to several sources, would be delighted to reunite with his former coach.
Xabi Alonso's bet
Xabi Alonso knows Grimaldo's strengths better than anyone. The Spanish coach has followed his development since Bayer Leverkusen and knows that his arrival at Real Madrid would be a high-level reinforcement. Grimaldo would be a major step forward in his career, supported by Real Madrid's stability and prestige.
A new direction for the left flank at Bernabéu?
Real Madrid's change of target may seem like a surprise to many, but it's yet another sign of the club's constant evolution. The left back position, a key spot for the team, seems that, finally, it will have a new owner.
While Fran García and Mendy remain options, the possibility of seeing Grimaldo in the white jersey is getting closer and closer. Without a doubt, this signing, if it happens, will mark the beginning of a new era for the left back position at Real Madrid.