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

Real Madrid 2025 summer signing falls down the pecking order after fallout with Arbeloa Real Madrid may have secured a crucial win over Espanyol , but one of the biggest talking points from the match had little to do with the scoreline. Instead, the spotlight has shifted to a growing selection call made by Alvaro Arbeloa. According to recent reports from El Mundo , Fran Garcia has now moved ahead of Alvaro Carreras in the pecking order.

This shift is not purely tactical but appears to come from internal issues between Carreras and the coaching staff. What’s the story? The situation became clear during the clash against Espanyol, as Arbeloa opted to start Ferland Mendy.

However, that decision quickly backfired. Just ten minutes into the match, Mendy pulled up while tracking back, clutching his right hip in visible discomfort. It was yet another injury setback in what has been a frustrating season for the French defender.

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.