MADRID – Real Madrid left-back Álvaro Carreras is back in training, but remains a doubt for Tuesday’s Champions League second leg against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. The Spanish international participated in a session on Sunday, March 16th, under the guidance of assistant coach Álvaro Arbeloa, as the team prepares for the crucial match in Manchester.
Carreras’ return to the pitch comes after a recent calf injury sustained against Getafe on March 2nd, which also saw him miss the La Liga match against Celta Vigo through suspension. According to reports, Monday’s training session will be decisive in determining his availability for the second leg, with Marca reporting that both Carreras and Kylian Mbappé are poised to be included in the squad barring any late setbacks.
While Mbappé reportedly trained fully without restriction, Carreras only completed a portion of the workout, raising concerns about his match fitness. Real Madrid currently hold a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, but manager Carlo Ancelotti will be keen to have as many key players available as possible for the return fixture.
The situation at left-back is particularly sensitive for Real Madrid. Ferland Mendy, who has struggled with muscular injuries throughout the season, started against Celta in Carreras’ absence and is the likely candidate to fill the role if Carreras is deemed unfit. The veteran Mendy has featured sparingly this season, making his potential involvement a notable point of interest.
Carreras, who joined Real Madrid from Benfica last summer, has made 34 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing two goals and two assists. He has started eight of Madrid’s ten Champions League matches this term, establishing himself as a key component of Ancelotti’s side. His absence would represent a significant loss of experience and tactical flexibility.
The injury situation extends beyond Carreras, with Real Madrid already facing a number of absences. Jude Bellingham continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, while Kylian Mbappé was previously dealing with a knee sprain. Long-term absentees Eder Militao and Rodrygo remain sidelined, alongside David Alaba and Dani Ceballos. The cumulative effect of these injuries presents a significant challenge for Ancelotti as he navigates a critical period in the season.
The match at the Etihad Stadium is scheduled for 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT) on Tuesday, March 17th. Despite their comfortable lead, Real Madrid will be wary of Manchester City’s attacking prowess and the potential for a dramatic comeback. City, managed by Pep Guardiola, will undoubtedly be looking to overturn the deficit and maintain their hopes of retaining the Champions League title.
Carreras began his youth career in Spain, playing for Racing Ferrol and Deportivo La Coruña before joining Real Madrid’s youth setup in 2017. He later had a stint with Manchester United, signing a four-year contract in September 2020, before returning to Spain on loan to Preston North End and Granada. His journey has been marked by periods of promise and adaptation, culminating in his current role at Real Madrid.
The outcome of Monday’s training session will ultimately determine whether Carreras can play a part in what promises to be a captivating second leg. Real Madrid fans will be hoping for positive news, as the presence of their dynamic left-back could prove crucial in securing their place in the Champions League semi-finals.
Real Madrid will provide a further update on Carreras’ condition following the completion of Monday’s session. Fans can follow official updates on the club’s website and social media channels. The team then travels to Manchester ahead of Tuesday’s match, with the focus firmly on completing the job they started at the Bernabéu.
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