Initially third choice behind Daniel Sotres and Koke Vegas, Cardenas became a regular starter after the former left and the latter was promoted to the main squad. On 12 March 2020, he renewed his contract until 2022.[3]
On 27 November 2020, as Aitor was injured, Cárdenas made his first-team – and La Liga – debut, playing the full 90 minutes in a 1–1 away draw against Real Valladolid.[4][5] On 21 March 2022, already established in the first team, he agreed to an extension until 2025.[6]
Rayo Vallecano
On 18 August 2023, Cárdenas signed a four-year deal with top-tier club Rayo Vallecano.[7]