CUCURELLA OR CARRERAS: WHO SHOULD BE MOURINHO’S FIRST-CHOICE LEFT-BACK?

Under Xabi Alonso and Arbeloa, Carreras became a regular starter, especially when Mendy was sidelined with injuries. However, Cucurella’s arrival has changed the situation. Mourinho’s selections suggest that Carreras might struggle for minutes in the bigger matches.

Cucurella has started 6 of 10 La Liga matches and 2 of 3 Champions League games. He has played 655 minutes in La Liga and 188 in the UCL.

Carreras, on the other hand, has started 4 league matches and 1 Champions League game, playing 246 minutes in La Liga and 85 in the UCL. Mourinho has preferred Cucurella in several important fixtures against Barcelona, Betis, Inter and Atlético Madrid.

Let’s look at their La Liga stats.

Offensively, Carreras has the advantage despite playing fewer minutes. He has created 6 chances, registered 0.38 xA, scored 1 goal and recorded a higher xG than Cucurella. He also leads in successful dribbles (5) and duels won (15). This makes him a more dangerous option when Madrid need creativity and attacking threat from the left flank.

Cucurella, however, is stronger defensively. He has recorded 7 interceptions, 23 tackles, 5 blocked shots, 41 recoveries and more clearances than Carreras. More importantly, his defensive stats per 90 minutes are also better, meaning his advantage isn't simply down to playing more minutes.

Our main concern is stability. When the midfield fails to protect the line things can get messy. Even though Mourinho has addressed the midfield issues maintaining a defensive structure remains crucial. Cucurellas defensive contribution makes him a safer option, against opponents, where a single mistake can decide a match.

Carreras, on the other hand, offers more going forward. He could be particularly useful against teams that sit deep, where Madrid need dribbling, creativity and someone who can push forward. That's where Carreras shines.

In my opinion, Cucurella should start the big games, while Carreras deserves more opportunities against teams that sit deep and defend in a low block. Rather than sticking to one player, Mourinho should use both according to the opposition. It's about choosing the right player for the right game.