Real Madrid top target rebels against his current club, refused to play in Club World Cup | OneFootball

According to journalist Guillermo Rai, as reported by SPORT, Alvaro Carreras decided not to play against Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup because he was upset over his blocked move to Real Madrid.

The talented left-back, who currently plays for Benfica, was reportedly disappointed by his club’s refusal to let him join Madrid this summer.

This frustration affected him mentally, leading him to skip one of his team’s most important games of the tournament.

Initially, many believed it was Benfica manager Bruno Lage’s decision to leave Carreras out of the squad for the round of 16 clash against Chelsea, which ended in a 1-4 defeat for the Portuguese side.

But new reports now reveal that it was Carreras himself who chose not to play, feeling let down and distracted by the failed transfer.

He had already missed the previous game against Bayern Munich due to suspension and was expected to return against Chelsea, but his frustration got the better of him.

What now then?

Alvaro Carreras was not happy with Benfica. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Carreras’ absence proved costly for Benfica, who were eliminated from the tournament in extra time after a red card to Gianluca Prestianni early in the extra period.

With his team down to 10 men, Carreras could have provided fresh legs and stability in defence, but his choice to sit out left Benfica vulnerable at a crucial moment.

Nearly a week after their elimination, talks between Benfica and Real Madrid over Carreras’ transfer remain at a standstill.

Real Madrid sources say they do not want to abandon the player and remain interested, but they must pay the €50 million Benfica are demanding if they hope to complete the deal.

Carreras, under contract with Benfica until 2029, will have to stay in Lisbon if Madrid can not meet the Portuguese club’s asking price.