Alvaro Carreras: Benfica’s New Defensive Star

Alvaro Carreras has firmly established himself as one of European football’s most exciting defensive prospects, combining raw talent with tactical intelligence. The young Spaniard’s journey from the prestigious academies of Spain to the demanding stages of English and Portuguese football showcases a player with immense determination and technical quality. Now making his mark at SL Benfica, Carreras is on a trajectory that points towards the very top of the game. This comprehensive profile delves into his career path, analyses his distinct playing style, and evaluates the potential that has major clubs and national team scouts taking notice.

The Formative Years: From Galicia to La Fábrica

Born in Ferrol, Galicia, Alvaro Carreras began his footballing education close to home, first at Racing de Ferrol before joining the esteemed youth setup of Deportivo de La Coruña. It was here that his natural abilities as a left-back began to flourish. His pace, dribbling, and early signs of defensive astuteness quickly set him apart from his peers. His performances did not go unnoticed, and in 2017, one of the biggest clubs in world football came calling.

At just 14 years old, Carreras made the significant move to join Real Madrid’s legendary academy, La Fábrica. Competing against the best young talents in Spain, he honed his technical skills and tactical understanding. Life at La Fábrica is a high-pressure environment designed to forge elite footballers, and Carreras thrived. He developed the composure on the ball and the progressive passing range that are hallmarks of modern full-backs, learning to contribute not just in defence but as a key part of building attacks from the back. His three years in Madrid were crucial in shaping the disciplined yet adventurous player he is today.

A Bold Move: Why Alvaro Carreras Chose Manchester United

In a move that surprised many in 2020, a 17-year-old Alvaro Carreras opted to leave Real Madrid and join Manchester United. Seeing a clearer pathway to first-team football in England, he embraced the challenge of adapting to a new country and a different style of play. He was quickly integrated into United’s Under-23 side, where his impact was immediate and profound. He demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to the more physical and fast-paced nature of English football.

His standout performances for the reserves culminated in him winning the prestigious Denzil Haroun Reserve-Team Player of the Year award for the 2021–22 season. This accolade, previously won by players like Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard, highlighted his exceptional progress and status as one of the brightest prospects at the club. During his time with the United academy, Alvaro Carreras showcased his attacking threat, contributing goals and assists while remaining a reliable defensive presence. This period was instrumental in building the resilience and versatility that would define his first steps into senior professional football.

Proving Ground: Championship Success at Preston North End

To gain vital senior experience, Manchester United loaned Alvaro Carreras to Preston North End for the 2022–23 season. The EFL Championship is renowned for its relentless intensity and physicality, providing the perfect test for a young player’s readiness. Carreras not only coped but excelled. Under manager Ryan Lowe, he became a key player for the Lilywhites, making 42 appearances across all competitions. He demonstrated his attacking instincts by providing several crucial assists, with his overlapping runs and pinpoint crosses becoming a significant weapon for Preston. Defensively, he proved he could handle the division’s most formidable wingers, showcasing strong tackling and positional awareness. This successful loan spell was his true professional breakthrough, proving that the young Spaniard had the talent and temperament to succeed in men’s football.

A New Chapter: The Permanent Switch to Benfica

Following a brief but solid loan spell back in Spain with Granada for the first half of the 2023-24 season, a new, exciting opportunity arose. In the January transfer window, SL Benfica secured his services, initially on a loan deal that included a mandatory purchase clause. The Portuguese giants saw in Alvaro Carreras the ideal modern full-back to fit into their dynamic, high-pressing system under manager Roger Schmidt. The permanent move signalled Benfica