Álvaro Carreras has already been presented as a new member of Real Madrid. In a solemn ceremony at Valdebebas, Florentino Pérez welcomed him. He thus becomes the fifth signing of the season after Xabi Alonso, Huijsen, Trent, and Mastantuono.
Real Madrid has paid 50 million euros to Benfica for his transfer. Álvaro returns after his time at La Fábrica, where he stood out since his youth days. He signs for six seasons and with the desire to establish himself among the elite.
Xabi Alonso has been key in this operation. He personally requested him to strengthen the left flank at Santiago Bernabéu. Unless there is a surprise, he will be the undisputed starter from day one.
Álvaro Carreras arrives to be important with Xabi
Despite having a guaranteed role, Álvaro Carreras will have to compete with other important names at the white club. In principle, his main rival will be Ferland Mendy. The Frenchman, who remains under contract until 2027, doesn't want to leave and accepts the competition.
Because of his defensive characteristics, Mendy will be the alternative when Xabi seeks more solidity in his scheme. He has already proven to be reliable in high-demand situations. Although his offensive projection can't be compared to Álvaro's.
In addition, Fran García also remains on the left side. The Madrid-born full-back, fast and with great range, has convinced Xabi after a great Club World Cup. His role will be to come off the bench for more aggressive offensive scenarios.
Xabi will have to do without those who won't get minutes at Real Madrid
Not everyone can stay in a position so loaded with names. One of those affected has been the promising Youssef Enríquez, known as Yusi. The young talent from the reserve team already knows he won't have space this season.
Despite his growth in the youth academy, the arrival of Álvaro Carreras has completely closed the doors of the first team to him. The footballer himself has understood this and has looked for a destination where he can keep growing. He doesn't want to stagnate.
Yusi has signed for Alavés, where he hopes to get more minutes and stability. Real Madrid will receive 3 million for his departure. In addition, it keeps a buy-back option valid for the next two years.
Yusi will play in Vitoria and will seek to grow outside Real Madrid
Yusi faces this new challenge with optimism. He knows he's arriving in a more modest environment, but with room to shine. His goal is to settle in the First Division and show that he has top-level quality.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid guarantees itself three top-level names on the left wing. Álvaro Carreras, Ferland Mendy, and Fran García will form the trio of left-backs for Xabi Alonso. Each with a different profile and very clear roles.
The competition will be fierce, but that only benefits the coaching staff and internal demands. Yusi's path, although outside Bernabéu, is just beginning. A return in the future can't be ruled out if he fulfills his potential.