Alvaro Fernandez Carreras impresses in Benfica’s final match of the season | OneFootball

Manchester United loanee Alvaro Carreras completed his final game for Benfica before returning to Old Trafford in the summer.

Although starting out in disappointing fashion, the loan spell has turned into a prosperous one, as the Spaniard has played regularly in the last six weeks.

In that time he has scored his first senior goal and grabbed an assist last week in a marauding performance.

So impressed with his efforts, it has been reported that it is highly likely that Benfica will take up the option to sign the 21 year old permanently.

The youngster played 87 minutes against Rio Ave in a 1-1 draw last night. His side were leading when he was subbed off but they conceded a late penalty in the 93rd minute of play. The result was of little consequence however as the Eagles had wrapped up second place a long time ago.

Benfica dominated in shots and possession, having 17 to 10 and 54% of the ball.

Carreras once again put in a solid all-round display and was given a score of 7 on Sofascore.

He put in a decent shift defensively, making one clearance and intercepting the ball three times in the match.

He also made one successful tackle as he helped his team keep Rio Ave out until he was subbed off late in the second half.

He impressively won 80% of his five aerial duels and won four out of nine of his ground battles.

As usual, he was heavily involved going forward.

The Spanish under-21 international had a mammoth 91 touches of the ball and a passing accuracy of 67%, completing 41 out of 61.

He fired in two crosses but neither of them were able to connect with their intended target.

His most eye-catching statistic was the fact he was successful in 100% of his three dribble attempts and made life very difficult indeed for Rio Ave’s right hand side defence.

It has been a topsy-turvy year for the young man, starting well at Granada to eventually fall out of favour. However, he will be pleased with his efforts of consolidating himself as an important squad member for a team as strong as Benfica in 2024, who he joined in January.

It will be interesting to see if the 21 year old ever suits up for United again or whether Benfica sign him before pre-season even begins in earnest.

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