Real Madrid add new name to injury list ahead of UCL clash with Man City
With several players already in the sickbay - including star striker Kylian Mbappé - Real Madrid have announced another injury.
As Real Madrid continue their preparations for Wednesday’s Champions League first leg with Manchester City, fullback Álvaro Carreras has officially joined Los Blancos’ injury list.
With Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, David Alaba, Dani Ceballos, Éder Militao and Rodrygo Goes already confirmed absences, Carreras has been diagnosed with a calf injury in his right leg, the club said today.
When will Carreras return for Real Madrid?
Carreras’ injury stems from a heavy knock taken by the defender in Madrid’s LaLiga defeat Getafe seven days ago. It was hoped that the 22-year-old, who was suspended for Friday’s league win over Celta Vigo, might be available to rejoin group training today.
But that didn’t happen - and the club expects him to miss at least another week. In the best‑case scenario, he could return for the second leg of Madrid’s last-16 tie with City, on Mar. 17. That means Ferland Mendy is likely to start in this week’s opener at the Bernabéu.
Carreras' Medical Report.
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) March 9, 2026
What’s the latest with Mbappé?
As he deals with a persistent knee injury, Mbappé returned to Spain yesterday after spending a few days in Paris. The striker worked out in the gym and did individual exercises out on the practice field today, but didn’t train with ball at feet and will miss Wednesday’s game.
Rüdiger’s Real boost as trio return
The good news is that Antonio Rüdiger will be available - and he’ll once again draw the toughest assignment: marking Erling Haaland. The German center back completed the full session today without any issues, so he’s expected to start.
Meanwhile, Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa will welcome back three players who missed the win in Vigo: Dean Huijsen, Javier Mastantuono and Eduardo Camavinga. The first two were out due to suspension, while Camavinga had been sidelined by severe dental pain caused by a cavity.
There’s a noticeable tension around Valdebebas - understandably so. If Arbeloa hasn’t wanted to miss a single moment in preparing for the matchup with City, the players have been even more committed. Both Mbappé and Bellingham know they’ll miss the first leg, but they’re fully aware they’ll be needed next week at the Etihad Stadium. That’s why neither has stopped pushing to return as soon as possible.
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