The name Álvaro Carreras has recently gained traction as a potential reinforcement for Real Madrid at left-back. However, his latest performances at the Club World Cup with Benfica have raised concerns among Madrid fans, who were hoping for a more convincing display from the young Spanish defender.

Developed in Real Madrid’s youth academy, the 22-year-old Carreras has had spells in English football, a brief stint with Granada, and now plays in Portugal with Benfica. He started in both of his team’s opening matches at the tournament under Bruno Lage, but his showing in the second game against Auckland City left much to be desired.

A lackluster first half and a costly booking

In the match against the New Zealand side, Carreras was in the starting XI but only played the first half, which was marked by Benfica’s lack of clarity and rhythm. Although he attempted to join the attack and stayed involved in some forward plays, the team’s sluggish tempo hindered his impact.

To make matters worse, the Galician left-back picked up his second yellow card of the tournament — this time for an avoidable action: kicking the ball toward the referee just before halftime. That booking means he’ll miss the next match against Bayern Munich due to suspension.

Coach Bruno Lage replaced him during the break with Samuel Dahl, and Benfica’s offense came to life in the second half, ultimately dismantling Auckland. Notably, all five goals scored after halftime came with Carreras off the pitch.

With the suspension confirmed, it’s possible Carreras won’t feature again in this Club World Cup. If Benfica fails to reach the knockout stage, and his transfer to Real Madrid goes through, this could have been his final appearance for the Portuguese side — and not the farewell he had hoped for.

Now, all eyes in Madrid are watching his development closely. But the question lingers: Is Álvaro Carreras really the reinforcement that Real Madrid needs?