On Saturday, Real Madrid faced Valencia at the Santiago Bernabéu, aiming to secure a second consecutive home victory in La Liga. The team, under Xabi Alonso‘s guidance, delivered a commanding 4-0 win that showcased their offensive prowess and defensive solidity.
Among the standout performers was Álvaro Carreras, whose remarkable strike has made waves globally. The young defender has quickly established himself as a key player for the team, leading in both interventions and passes within the squad. Against Valencia, Carreras excelled defensively, recording an impressive 12 recoveries, winning three duels, and completing 83 passes—38 of which were in the final third. These statistics underline his growing importance in the Madrid lineup.
Defensive Rock with Offensive Flair
As highlighted by AS, Carreras has primarily been recognized for his defensive capabilities this season. However, his performance against Valencia revealed an additional layer to his game. Not only did he unleash a powerful shot with an expected goals value of just 0.02, but he also actively contributed to Real Madrid’s attacking play. This versatility adds a new dimension to his role on the pitch.
A Legacy in the Making?
Carreras’ transfer from Benfica for €50 million has placed him in a prestigious lineage at Real Madrid—following in the footsteps of legendary left-backs like Roberto Carlos and Marcelo. The weight of expectations is palpable, especially given recent struggles from players like Ferland Mendy and Fran García at the same position. Yet, Carreras seems unfazed by this pressure. “No, no, those are big words,” he laughed when discussing comparisons with his predecessors. “It’s an honor. I wasn’t in a rush to score; my job is different. But whenever I can help, I will.” His confidence is evident as he embraces the challenge of playing for such a storied club.
Despite facing criticism after a disappointing derby against Atlético Madrid earlier this season, where he was targeted for blame following the match, Carreras has shown resilience. The 22-year-old has rebounded strongly, proving that he can thrive under pressure and contribute significantly to Real Madrid’s ambitions this season.
As he continues to impress fans and analysts alike, one question remains: can Carreras maintain this exceptional form throughout the season? With every match, he inches closer to solidifying his place among Real Madrid’s greats.
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