Real Madrid's New Signing Gets Stark Warning About Lamine Yamal Threat in El Clasico Showdown

Real Madrid understand that neutralizing Lamine Yamal represents a crucial element in achieving victory over Barcelona, a responsibility that will now fall to Álvaro Carreras as the club's newly acquired left-back.

Barcelona completely outclassed Real Madrid throughout the previous campaign, securing victories in all four Clásico encounters to eventually capture La Liga, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Copa del Rey. The Blaugrana netted 16 goals against Los Merengues, with Yamal directly involved in scoring or assisting nearly one-third of those strikes.

Following the acquisition of three defensive additions during the summer transfer window, including the 22-year-old Carreras, Real Madrid anticipate finally gaining an advantage over their fierce adversaries.

Despite Carreras having made his Real Madrid bow just days earlier, the Spanish defender is already experiencing the weight of expectations for his inaugural El Clásico. During a fan signing session, a supporter shouted, "You must neutralize Lamine Yamal!"

Whether Carreras will secure the starting position on the left side for Los Merengues remains uncertain, but the former Benfica star appears to be the leading candidate after being selected for Real Madrid's single preseason match against WSG Tirol.

He edged out Fran García, who delivered several outstanding displays during the FIFA Club World Cup. Ferland Mendy continues his recovery following surgical intervention for a torn tendon in his right quadriceps.

Latest reports suggest Real Madrid intend to offload Mendy and proceed with Carreras and García going forward, though no formal decisions have been announced. If the French defender stays at the club next season, he may find his starting position challenged by Carreras.

Ultimately, the club presumably did not invest €50 million ($58.42 million) to bring the fullback to the Spanish capital only to have him warm the bench. All indicators suggest Carreras will occupy the left-back role for Los Merengues, setting up his direct battle with Yamal.

The positive aspect for Carreras is having several months to adapt to La Liga competition and integrate with his new teammates before confronting one of the world's premier wingers on Sunday, Oct. 26. Nevertheless, little can truly prepare him for facing Yamal in Spain's most intense rivalry.