Xabi Alonso picks out Real Madrid player that has ‘pleasantly surprised him’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid could hardly have planned for a better start to the season, particularly after their Club World Cup elimination at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, with six games won out of their opening six fixtures. That start has been underpinned by major contributions from new signings, and fresh Kylian Mbappe.

Los Blancos have done so with Trent Alexander-Arnold injured for the past two games, without Jude Bellingham until the closing minutes of their win against Espanyol, and with Vinicius Junior blowing somewhat hot and cold.

Xabi Alonso picks out Real Madrid man that has surprised him

Nevertheless, there have been standouts for Real Madrid beyond Mbappe, and one garnering increasing praise is Alvaro Carreras. Brought back to the club after a sojourn to Manchester United, Preston North End and then Benfica at the price of €50m, Carreras has been omnipresent for Alonso thus far. He told the press he had been surprised by his impact.

Image via Javier Gandul/Diario AS

“I was optimistic, I have, we have been following him for a while, but his personality and competitiveness have very pleasantly surprised me. He makes very few mistakes and has a great mentality. It’s surprising how quickly he’s impacted that position. We also have Fran [Garcia], David [Alaba] and Ferland [Mendy] for that position. But his performance has been excellent.”

Alonso taking it slow with Eduardo Camavinga

The Basque manager confirmed that both Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham would be ready to start against Levante on Tuesday night, but noted that he was keen not to rush things with the Frenchman.

“I’m a bit cautious with him. He’s been with us a while, but has not been available much. I know him from watching him, from how he interprets the game. He has enormous potential, a lot of qualities, and there’s a place for him within the project. He’s keen, he’s willing.”