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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Spanish giants Real Madrid have officially presented Álvaro Carreras to the media following the conclusion of a long-running transfer saga.
The Spanish full-back was unveiled at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday afternoon, less than 24 hours after the club confirmed his arrival.
The 22-year-old joins from Benfica in a deal worth €50 million, paid in instalments. Manchester United, where Carreras spent a significant part of his early professional career, will also receive a percentage of the fee due to a sell-on clause.
During the presentation, Carreras was welcomed by club president Florentino Pérez and posed for photos with his new jersey. He will wear the number 18 shirt, previously held by Jesús Vallejo.
“I want to thank the president for his kind words and the club for placing their trust in me,” Carreras said. “I left as a boy and I’m returning as a man. It’s an honour to wear the shirt of the best club in the world. I also want to thank my family—without them, none of this would be possible. Thank you so much, and Hala Madrid!”
“It Means Everything to Return”
Carreras, who spent three years in Real Madrid’s youth academy before moving to Manchester United, was visibly emotional about returning to his boyhood club.
“It means everything—fulfilling a dream, coming back to what once was my home. I’m really looking forward to this new challenge,” he said.
The Spaniard also spoke about the moment he broke the news to his loved ones.
“All my friends support the best club in the world—Real Madrid, of course. They couldn’t believe it when I told them. Honestly, I couldn’t either, right up to the last moment. Telling my mum… she got emotional, and that’s understandable. It made me emotional too.”
Conversations with Xabi Alonso and Role at Madrid
Carreras also revealed that he had already spoken with new manager Xabi Alonso, who now has multiple options at left-back, including Carreras.
“Yes, I’ve spoken to him and he congratulated me. As for my position, I’ll play wherever the coach needs me to. This is the club of my dreams, and I’ll give everything for this shirt.”
He also addressed the competition within the squad:
“They’re two great players. I’ve come to give my best, to work hard for the team, and to help keep winning trophies and making history. This is the happiest day of my life. There will be time to talk about how we can all contribute. Right now, I’m focused on integrating into the team.”
Making History Already
The transfer makes Carreras the second most expensive defender in Real Madrid’s history, following the arrival of Dean Huijsen earlier this summer.
“I don’t think too much about numbers. Football today is very focused on that, but I’m calm within myself. My focus is to grow, help the team, and honour this shirt.”
Carreras’ return to Madrid marks not just a major career milestone, but also the continuation of a journey that began in the club’s youth ranks. With a new number, a new manager, and big dreams, he’s ready to make his mark on the Bernabéu once again.
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