With the 2024-2025 season just around the corner, Real Madrid faces a series of decisions that will shape the team's direction. Among them, Fran García's position at left back has become a crucial topic for the board and the coaching staff. His future seems uncertain, and with it, also the impact this will have on Vinícius Júnior, who could be left without company on the left wing.
Closed signings: a renewed Madrid
Real Madrid has completed the signings of Alexander-Arnold and Huijsen, two reinforcements that strengthen an already high-level squad. With these two additions, only two pieces remain to be completed: the left back and the central midfielder.
Fran García, who has been a club bet since his return, remains one of the great unknowns, just like the central midfielder who is still desired. However, the competition for the left back position is fierce, with Mendy, García, and the future signing of Carreras in the equation.
Fran García: his difficult situation
Fran García's return to Madrid, after his outstanding spell at Rayo Vallecano, seemed like a bet for the future. Although he has shown good moments, especially in attack, he hasn't managed to establish himself as an undisputed starter.
During last season, his constant duel with Ferland Mendy for the position was one of the issues that caused the most concern for Ancelotti. Fran has played 2,174 minutes in LaLiga, spread over 31 matches, but he has been more of a substitute than a starter. With only two assists and no goals, his presence on the field has been more defensive than offensive.
The situation for Fran doesn't improve looking ahead to the new campaign. With Mendy renewed until 2027 and Carreras's signing almost completed, the left back is in a complicated position.
Fran will be a starter in the Club World Cup, since Mendy is injured and Carreras won't be available. However, after this tournament, the competition will once again be fierce, and the margin for error for Fran will be considerably reduced.
Xabi Alonso's dilemma and Carreras's future
With Carreras's signing still in process, Real Madrid faces a complicated decision. Benfica is asking for 50 million euros for the left back, but Madrid is looking to reduce that figure.
If his signing is confirmed, Xabi Alonso, Madrid's new coach, will have to manage a squad with three left backs: Mendy, Fran, and Carreras. This creates a difficult situation, since not all of them will be able to play the minutes they want. In the equation, Fran García's future seems increasingly uncertain, as the competition will be fierce.