Does Real Madrid need a new right-back? Real Madrid has been gradually bringing in fresh superstars to their roster. Young players like Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga are two examples of potential leaders poised to step up soon.
The same intention has been expressed through their signings during the current transfer window. To strengthen the defense, Los Blancos acquired Fran Garcia from Rayo Vallecano. The left-back position will be up for grabs between the 23-year-old and Ferland Mendy.
Jude Bellingham, who joined Madrid from Borussia Dortmund for a rumored sum of €103 million including add-ons, overshadowed Garcia’s acquisition. The intensity of competitiveness in Real Madrid’s midfield positions is demonstrated by his signing.
The right-back position is one of those that is comparatively unequaled. The team’s first-choice right-back is Dani Carvajal, with Lucas Vázquez and Nacho Fernández assigned to fill in for him in the event of an injury.
The need for competition in the right-back position:
Vázquez and Nacho alternate playing at right-back while Carvajal is absent or injured, as was previously noted. It’s vital to remember that neither player is a typical right-back. Nacho is a center-back, and Vazquez was a right winger who was switched to a right back.
Carvajal’s numbers fall far short of those of his positional contemporaries in the top five leagues in Europe. Only 0.98 of his tackles per 90 are effective, placing him in the 33rd percentile according to FBRef.
Carvajal’s tackle statistics are inferior to those of Lucas Vázquez. The 31-year-old is between the 81st and 83rd percentiles for tackle completion rate (2.54 per 90) and tackle win rate (1.60 per 90).
The number of blocks and clearances are indicators of Carvajal’s continued importance. In terms of blocks per 90 and clearances per 90, he is in the 67th and 69th percentiles, respectively. He outperforms Vázquez in such statistical subsets.
The amount of attacks they make does not differ significantly either. In contrast to Carvajal’s five assists in all competitions, Vázquez scored four goals and provided three assists for Madrid last season.
Carvajal’s injury record: “Carvajal’s history of injuries is another reason Real Madrid should think about recruiting a new right-back. The Spaniard has missed 55 games for Los Blancos since the 2020–21 season. The only time he missed practice because of illness was during the 2021–22 season as he was getting better from Covid.”
During this time, he has experienced four distinct muscle injuries. His other injuries include hamstring and calf issues. Ferland Mendy’s history of injuries makes the Madrid full-back situation extremely dismal.
Los Blancos’ acquisition of Fran Garcia from Rayo Vallecano was crucial for this reason. Madrid must then do the same on the right side of the defensive line.
Players whom Madrid could sign: “Although there aren’t many right-backs available in Europe, Madrid could yet consider certain individuals to strengthen their defense. Iván Fresneda, Benjamin Pavard, and Joao Cancelo are among the players who might be available.”
Cancelo finished his loan at Bayern Munich and came back to Manchester City. He is an excellent choice for Los Blancos because it is said that Etihad considers him to be surplus to requirements. His knowledge of the continent of Europe might be quite useful.
An additional intriguing choice is Benjamin Pavard. The 2018 World Cup champion for France is a 27-year-old with one year remaining on his current Bayern Munich contract. He can play at right-back and as one-third of a back three, which adds to his versatility.
Madrid may also take into account Iván Fresneda as a candidate. The 18-year-old has been associated with teams like Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal. The highly regarded defender may be a player to watch in the future with 22 La Liga games under his credit.
Get up-to-date information about your favorite football teams and players with the latest news and updates.