Real Madrid quietly optimistic Álvaro Carreras will be available for Manchester City first leg

Álvaro Carreras is trending toward being available for Wednesday’s first leg against Manchester City — but nothing is guaranteed. Aerial shots of Valdebebas this Saturday, just four days before the blockbuster first leg, tell the story: the players who could have filled the frame are instead ruled out. Bellingham and Mbappé are confirmed absences. No chance for either in the first leg. Both will push to return for the second.

The big question mark now sits at left back. Carreras took a heavy blow to his left calf against Getafe. At first, it didn’t seem serious. Now, it’s becoming a concern. The pain hasn’t subsided, and while the club remains optimistic, no one is ready to bet on his availability. He didn’t step onto the training pitch today — just gym work, physio, and recovery sessions. His status will be evaluated day by day. If he can’t make it, Mendy will start.

A boost in midfield: Camavinga returns

There’s better news in midfield: Camavinga will be available. The question is whether he’ll be at 100 percent, but he’s cleared for battle. It’s been a week since he began dealing with a painful tooth infection — one that derailed everything. It started last Saturday with an emergency dentist visit. Two days later, he was left out of the squad against Getafe. Then came the Balaídos drama: he trained Thursday, traveled to Vigo, and once there, was pulled and sent to the stands.

Arbeloa’s comment — “I’m very happy for the people who wanted to come” — seemed to hit close to home. Camavinga has taken heavy criticism over the last 48 hours.

Training in the rain

But today, he stepped up. Real Madrid landed back in the capital before dawn, yet still held a morning training session under the rain. Camavinga was out there. Despite lingering tooth pain, he completed the full session. And from Valdebebas, the message is clear: he will play against Manchester City. Whether he starts is up to Arbeloa — especially with Thiago’s strong form fueling debate. Still, amid the injury chaos, Camavinga is the only guaranteed recovery.

Six confirmed absences

That’s the reality. At least six first‑team players will watch the match from the stands. The two headline absences: Bellingham and Mbappé.

Bellingham’s case was expected. He’s still recovering from a significant tear in his left semitendinosus muscle. The injury happened on February 1. The initial timeline was one month, but it’s taking longer. He has a chance to make the second leg — difficult, but possible. The fact he stepped onto the grass today offers hope.

Mbappé’s situation is similar, though the atmosphere around him is slightly more optimistic. He returns to Valdebebas tomorrow after spending time in France. His left knee is improving, and he has a real shot at playing at the Etihad. Not guaranteed, but likely. For the first leg, though? He’s out.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.