Real Madrid 2025 summer signing falls down the pecking order after fallout with Arbeloa

Fran Garcia is Arbeloa’s preferred choice over Carreras. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

At that moment, many expected Carreras to step in as the natural replacement. Instead, Arbeloa made a different call, turning to Fran Garcia from the bench.

Why was Carreras left out?

Reports suggest that tensions between Carreras and Arbeloa had already been building in recent weeks.

The defender had been left out of previous starting line-ups, with concerns reportedly centred around his attitude.

From the coaching staff’s point of view, his behaviour did not meet expectations, which led to reduced opportunities on the pitch.

That situation now appears to have escalated and the latest selection choice against Espanyol is being seen as confirmation that Fran Garcia has overtaken Carreras in the manager’s plans.

What once looked like healthy competition for a starting spot has now turned into a clear shift in preference.

As such, the pecking order could shift next season, mostly because Real Madrid will be under new management, and it will be interesting to see how the new coach handles the situation.