For Real Madrid, the central defense area has been a real headache in recent years. Injuries have been depleting the position, to the point where there have been few healthy center-backs in recent seasons. Xabi Alonso arrives with the intention of solving it: first by signing Huijsen, and now by using the youth academy to put an end to all the problems.
As of today, there are five center-backs in Real Madrid's first team. The newly signed Huijsen, the renewed Asencio, Rüdiger, and the injured David Alaba and Militao. The idea is to have a sixth, moving between the first team and the reserves so he doesn't go without playing. The chosen one is none other than Joan Martínez, a 17-year-old from Valencia who spent last season sidelined.
Joan Martínez: The great gem of La Fábrica
In last year's preseason, Joan Martínez was the main surprise for Real Madrid. He performed at an excellent level at just 16 years old, but he suffered a cruciate ligament tear that made him miss the entire campaign. Now recovered from this injury, the plan for the youth player is for him to gradually regain confidence with Castilla and fully readapt.
Xabi Alonso has spoken to him personally and has already made it clear: "Joan, there's no rush, take your time." In August, he will turn 18 and he won't be forced, as they believe he is the defender of the future for Real Madrid. Many voices in the youth academy compare him to Pau Cubarsí, claiming that "he's better."
Joan Martínez will work regularly with the "seniors," trying to adapt to what Xabi Alonso asks. However, he will play with Castilla, trying to regain confidence and form. The relationship between the coach from Tolosa and Arbeloa, the reserve team manager, is fantastic and they will work to get him back to his best level as soon as possible.
Joan Martínez delivers the final blow to Alaba
Thus, the plans at Real Madrid are clear: Joan Martínez will take this season as a transition, trying to reach his best version and learning from the "seniors." There's no rush and he will take as much time as he needs, with many hopes placed on him.
After that, likely having already debuted at Santiago Bernabéu, he will be ready to move up with the first team. He will do so delivering the final blow to David Alaba, whose contract ends on June 30, 2026. Florentino's instruction is clear: he won't be renewed due to his constant injuries and high salary, and the doors of Real Madrid are open for him.