From Youth Prospect at Valdebebas to Benfica Star

Real Madrid is preparing a defensive overhaul following a disappointing, trophyless season, and one of the top names on their list is Álvaro Carreras, current left-back for Benfica. However, bringing him back won't be easy or cheap. The Galician defender has a €50 million release clause, a figure the Spanish giants may have to match if they want to re-sign a player they once had in their youth academy.

Born in Ferrol in 2003, Carreras came up through the youth ranks at Galicia de Caranza, Racing de Ferrol, and Deportivo La Coruña, before joining Real Madrid's academy in 2017. But despite his talent, he opted not to renew his contract in 2020 and instead joined Manchester United, launching a career that has since flourished far from home.

After loan spells at Preston North End and a short stint with Granada, Carreras was transferred to Benfica, where he has emerged as one of the standout defenders of this year’s Champions League, especially in the knockout tie against Barcelona.

From Overlooked Talent to Future Madrid Starter?

While at Valdebebas, Carreras was overshadowed by peers like David de la Víbora, who eventually stepped away from top-level European football. Today, those days are long gone, as Carreras has grown into a well-rounded defender and seen his market value quadruple in under a year.

He is expected to be the third major signing for new head coach Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid, following the acquisitions of Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold. At Benfica, the Spaniard has proven he can thrive in both a traditional back four and as a wing-back — a perfect tactical fit for Alonso’s preferred system.

Meanwhile, the futures of Ferland Mendy and Fran García remain uncertain, prompting the club to strengthen the left-back position. Ironically, bringing back the defender who once chose to leave could now cost Madrid a hefty fee — the result of past decisions that underestimated his potential.

In the end, time has validated Álvaro Carreras’s bold choice. Now, Real Madrid must decide if they’re willing to pay the price to bring him home.