Real Madrid star under fire after Bernabeu struggle

April 8, 2026 Oliver Obel

Real Madrid’s 2-1 loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final first leg has left Carlo Ancelotti’s side with work to do—and sparked debate over one player’s performance.

Bayern struck first at the Santiago Bernabeu through Luis Diaz before Harry Kane doubled the visitors’ lead early in the second half. Kylian Mbappe pulled a goal back with 16 minutes remaining, but Madrid were unable to find an equaliser ahead of next week’s return leg in Germany.

While the result keeps the tie within reach, much of the post-match discussion has centered on left-back Alvaro Carreras, who struggled to contain Bayern winger Michael Olise.

Targeted down the flank

Carreras, 23, was frequently isolated against Olise, with Bayern repeatedly exploiting space on Madrid’s left side. The French winger was able to beat his marker in one-on-one situations and contributed to several dangerous attacking moments.

Football Espana was critical of the defender’s display, awarding him a 3/10 rating. The outlet wrote: “Struggled significantly against Michael Olise in the first half, who seemed to go past him at will at times. Gave the ball away cheaply on several occasions too, and when he got forward, it only seemed to leave him out of position.”

The performance also drew a strong reaction from supporters online, with many singling Carreras out as Madrid’s weakest performer on the night. Some fans questioned whether he should start the second leg, reflecting broader frustration rather than isolated criticism.

Arbeloa urges patience

Despite the backlash, manager Alvaro Arbeloa defended the young defender after the match.

According to Tribuna, he said: “He was playing against one of the best players in the world; it’s not easy.

“My confidence in Alvaro remains unshakable; he will learn a lesson from today's match. Those of us who have played as full-backs know exactly how difficult it is. But Alvaro is a Real Madrid player for the present and the future.”

Carreras, who joined from Benfica for €50 million last summer, has made 37 appearances this season, scoring twice and providing two assists.

Madrid now turn their attention to a domestic fixture against Girona before traveling to Germany for the decisive second leg on April 15.

Sources: Football Espana, Tribuna