Real Madrid manager pleased with full-back’s stunning debut vs Osasuna | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s win over Osasuna did not make the headlines as a game in which Xabi Alonso’s men stamped their authority and announced their return for they were far from dominant on the night.

The game left Los Blancos with a feeling that a lot must be improved, and understandably so given the managerial and tactical change.

Yet, there were some serious positives for the manager to take away from the game, the biggest of them being the debuts of all four new signings in La Liga. Of them, however, it was Alvaro Carreras who impressed the most.

Alonso has found a pearl

On his official debut for the club, Carreras started at left-back for Real Madrid and instantly showcased why he is by far the best player in the department available to the manager.

Carreras went on to play all 90 minutes at the Santiago Bernabeu and was a fundamental cog for Los Blancos, not only in defence but also in attack. What set him apart, however, was the zeal and desire he showed in terms of his work rate.

In 90 minutes, the Spaniard made the most touches on the field with 123 to his name and was even ahead of Dean Huijsen who had an impressive 114 to his name.

Xabi Alonso is impressed with Alvaro Carreras. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Further, Carreras attempted 99 passes and led on that metric as well, completing 88 in the process.

What made the defender’s performance even more impressive was seeing how composed and motivated he was in the final third where he completed 57 of 64 attempted passes. He also created two big chances, provided two key passes and had two shots.

His connection with Vinicius Jr is one area that did not shine on the night, but that. Had more to do with the Brazilian looking off colour than Carreras’ shortcomings.

In fact, the full-back even outdid the talisman on occasion and provided the required width.

Xabi Alonso, needless to say, was left impressed with the performance and sees the player to be a regular starter in the team’s dynamics beyond doubt. Needless to say, it will be fascinating to watch his growth over the coming months.