Reinventing the Wings: How Real Madrid Plans to Dominate with Alexander-Arnold and Carreras
Real Madrid are revamping their tactical approach by reinforcing the full-back positions with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Álvaro Carreras two new signings tasked with restoring width, creativity, and attacking threat under Xabi Alonso.
Full-Back Revolution Begins at the Bernabéu
After years of declining productivity from their wide defenders, Real Madrid have invested €60 million to solve their full-back issues bringing in England international Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and Spanish talent Álvaro Carreras, who returns to Madrid after spells in England and Portugal.
The new strategy aims to bring back the golden era of Marcelo and Carvajal, when Real’s flank play was key to their dominance in Europe.
Alexander-Arnold Already Crucial Under Xabi Alonso
Trent Alexander-Arnold has immediately stepped into a starting role, showcasing his trademark passing range and creativity. He was a standout performer during the Club World Cup, where he provided two assists, including one in a high-stakes clash against Juventus.
Despite missing the final due to minor muscular discomfort, the 25-year-old has already earned Alonso’s trust and is expected to play a central role throughout the 2025/26 season.
Carreras and Vinicius Form Promising Partnership
On the left, Álvaro Carreras offers Real Madrid a much-needed offensive boost. While not as defensively solid as Ferland Mendy, Carreras outperforms both Mendy and Fran García when it comes to overlapping runs and link-up play.
Carreras is also expected to unlock more space for Vinicius Júnior, allowing the Brazilian star to cut inside and operate more centrally potentially increasing his goal contributions.
End of Makeshift Defenses?
In recent years, injuries to Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy forced Real Madrid to improvise with players like Lucas Vázquez and Nacho in the full-back roles. Those stopgap solutions worked in spurts, but the club clearly recognized the need for elite, natural full-backs.
Now, with Alexander-Arnold and Carreras in place, Real Madrid appears better equipped to execute Xabi Alonso’s possession-based, high-press system, with wide defenders playing a crucial tactical role.
Looking Ahead
The additions of Alexander-Arnold and Carreras mark a strategic shift in Madrid’s squad building. Rather than relying on improvisation, the club is investing in long-term solutions, giving Alonso the tools to restore Real Madrid’s identity—one that begins with dominance on the flanks.
