Real Madrid has a problem for the Club World Cup that it has not been able to solve before the transfer window closed: the left back. Attempts to sign Álvaro Carreras have not come to fruition, and Xabi Alonso is already thinking about alternatives for the championship.
The problem with the left-back
Real Madrid is not at all satisfied with its left side of defense. Mendy, who has spent much of the season injured, is barely fit for the Club World Cup. He is doubtful for the first few games, even if he is medically cleared to play, as he is well below match fitness due to his lack of game time.
Fran García is the only left-back available, but he is not convincing. After two seasons at Real Madrid, he has not lived up to expectations. He is saved by his commitment and dedication; he is a tireless player, strong, and in enviable physical shape. The absences give him one last chance to convince Xabi Alonso and a board that seems determined to sell him after the World Cup.
Xabi Alonso and his plan for the left-back
Xabi Alonso has had very little time to prepare for the World Cup at Valdebebas, but he has been able to count on Fran García and his possible replacement. Although the player from La Mancha has the advantage of being a first-team player, the Basque coach is considering fielding Diego Aguado. The Real Madrid youth player has already made his first-team debut during Ancelotti’s time, although he did so as a center back. His characteristics are reminiscent of the best Alaba, capable of playing both positions on the field. Xabi has tried him out during the week and seems quite satisfied with what he has seen on the pitch.
But he is not the only alternative that Xabi Alonso has tried out and is taking to the United States. The young Moroccan full-back Youssef has also made a very good impression on the Tolosa-born coach. In fact, he was one of the standout players in the second half of the Castilla championship, and his speed, work rate and versatility also make him one of the leading candidates to fill those positions.
Reinforcement on the left wing
The frustrated signing of Álvaro Carreras will have a second part. After the Club World Cup, it is possible that Real Madrid will close the deal. One of the reasons why he has not come now is because his current club, Benfica, is participating in the championship that begins this weekend and wanted the player, so they referred to the clause to sell him. However, once the championship is over, it is expected that if there are negotiations, a series of conditions will be agreed upon to lower the cost of the operation and allow the player to wear the white jersey next season.
Therefore, although Fran García has the advantage of being a first-team player, he is not guaranteed a starting spot at left back in the Club World Cup, which begins on July 18 for Real Madrid. Diego Aguado, a youth player who has already made his debut with the first team, is gaining ground to fill the position, and Youssef also seems to have convinced Xabi Alonso. In a few days, we will find out which players have been chosen by the Tolosa-born coach for the new era that is beginning at Real Madrid.