Real Madrid suffer another setback ahead of Manchester City clash — and it’s not Mbappé
The Spanish club confirmed that Álvaro Carreras will miss the match against the English side, with Ferland Mendy set to take his place.
Real Madrid has been hit with a significant wave of concern just hours before one of the most demanding fixtures of the season. The club has officially released a medical report confirming a muscle injury for defender Álvaro Carreras, leaving his availability for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg against Manchester City in serious doubt.
The alarm bells started ringing when the fullback failed to participate in the final training session prior to the European showdown. Shortly after, the "Merengues" made the situation public, confirming that the medical room at Valdebebas has a new high-profile occupant.
The Injury: Uncertainty in the Calf
According to the official medical update, Carreras has suffered an injury to the calf muscle in his right leg. As per club policy, Real Madrid has not specified a definitive recovery timeline, stating that his return to action will depend entirely on how the injury evolves in the coming days.
This setback comes at an incredibly inconvenient time for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad. Over the last few weeks, several key players have been forced to cycle through the infirmary, stretching the team's depth thin just as the season reaches its most critical phase.
A Tactical Headache Before Facing City
Managing an absence like Carreras is a daunting task given the "competitive context" of the upcoming match. Real Madrid is set to face a Manchester City side that demands absolute defensive perfection.
Carreras had recently carved out a vital role in the team’s tactical setup. His pace and positioning were seen as crucial tools to neutralize City’s offensive machine, which famously utilizes high-speed wingers and fullbacks who relentlessly join the attack.
Without him, the coaching staff will be forced to either reshuffle the entire defensive line or experiment with squad options that may lack the rhythm required for a match of this magnitude. Finding a solution for that specific sector of the pitch is now Ancelotti's top priority.
A Grueling Calendar Beyond Europe
The challenge doesn't end with Manchester City. Real Madrid’s schedule over the next few weeks is relentless, requiring a deep and healthy squad to remain competitive on all fronts. Following the European clash, the team must immediately pivot back to La Liga, where they face:
- Elche CF: A match where squad rotation will be vital to avoid further fatigue.
- Atlético de Madrid: The high-stakes Madrid Derby that could define the domestic title race.
- RCD Mallorca: A difficult away fixture that always tests the team's physical and mental resolve.
The medical department will continue to monitor Carreras' progress daily. The hope within the club is that the injury is minor enough for a quick return, but for now, the focus is on how to survive the "City storm" without one of their most reliable defensive assets.
