Analysing Real Madrid’s Right-Back Options Without Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal

Analysing Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid right-back options with both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal unavailable.

Real Madrid’s depth at right-back looked secure at the start of the season.

The signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold and the return of Dani Carvajal from injury gave Xabi Alonso two world-class options. But by mid-September, both players are sidelined — and Madrid’s defensive headache has returned.

Alexander-Arnold has suffered a hamstring injury that will keep him out for up to eight weeks, while Carvajal is suspended following his red card in the Champions League opener against Marseille.

That leaves Alonso scrambling for solutions ahead of a gruelling run of fixtures, including clashes with Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Barcelona and a trip to Liverpool in early November.

So, who can fill the gap on the right flank?

Real Madrid right-back options

Raul Asencio

The most straightforward option is Raul Asencio, who came off the bench after Carvajal’s red card against Marseille. The 22-year-old was promoted to the first team last season after Eder Militao’s ACL injury and played 57 times across competitions.

While his start under Alonso was rocky — including a red card in the Club World Cup and errors against PSG — he has bounced back with solid recent performances. Alonso praised his display at centre-back against Espanyol as “excellent”.

However, off-field issues hang over Asencio. He is set to stand trial relating to allegations of sharing a sex tape involving a minor, though he continues to deny wrongdoing. So far, the case has not affected his standing within the squad.

Federico Valverde

Federico Valverde is no stranger to the role. Under Carlo Ancelotti, he made 15 starts at right-back last season, including in Champions League ties against Arsenal, Atletico Madrid, and Manchester City.

But the Uruguayan is clear about his preference. “I’m doing well in the middle, my position, where I’ve always played,” Valverde said after the Marseille win. “The coach knows I don’t really like playing at full-back.”

Still, with Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga fit again, Alonso might have the luxury of shifting Valverde wide in a three-at-the-back system — a temporary fix that could suit the schedule.

Eder Militao or Fran Garcia: Creative reshuffles

Alonso could also experiment with Eder Militao, who has nearly 50 career appearances at right-back, including for Brazil at the 2022 World Cup. But moving him there would disrupt his partnership with Dean Huijsen in central defence.

Another option is Fran Garcia, a natural left-back who impressed at the Club World Cup. While he’s rarely played on the right, Alonso rates his work rate and might see him as an option to cover ground if the squad is stretched.

Academy prospects: Is it too soon for Jesus Fortea?

Fans have called for Jesus Fortea, the 18-year-old signed from Atletico Madrid in 2022. Considered one of the brightest talents in the academy, he recently signed a new contract and was included in Alonso’s Club World Cup squad.

But Fortea will soon be away with Spain at the Under-20 World Cup in Chile, ruling him out for the next month. Even without that, Alonso was unlikely to throw him into a Champions League campaign just yet.

Ultimately, with Alexander-Arnold sidelined until November and Carvajal banned in Europe, Alonso has few easy answers. Asencio looks the most likely short-term fix, but Valverde or Militao may also need to step in during crunch games.