Ibrahima Konaté was the clear choice to strengthen the defense. His imposing physique, his experience at the elite level, and his ability to dominate in the air made him ideal. However, in soccer, nothing is guaranteed, negotiations didn't move forward, and the signing was halted.
This forced Xabi Alonso to look for new alternatives to strengthen the center of the backline. Although Konaté was still a good option, the Basque coach had to think about other solutions. It was then that a name started to gain traction within the club.
Joan Martínez, the alternative plan with great potential
Joan Martínez, a young center-back from Valencia who's 17 years old, is the option Xabi Alonso has decided to develop. Despite his young age and the serious injury he suffered last year, he's still a solid bet.
Joan impressed during last preseason with Carlo Ancelotti, where he had good minutes, even against top-level opponents like FC Barcelona. Shortly after, he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear, just like David Alaba, which kept him out for the entire 2024/25 season.
The recovery was long and tough, but Joan has shown a strong mentality. Now he's close to returning and the club has closely followed his progress. In Valdebebas, they trust his talent and believe he'll soon be able to help the first team.
Xabi Alonso's trust and the path for Joan
Xabi Alonso knows the situation well and knows he needs to strengthen the center of the defense, especially if Konaté doesn't arrive. Another option is William Saliba, but Arsenal is asking for €100 million, a figure that's too high for Real Madrid right now. That's why Joan Martínez appears as a much more accessible and promising alternative.
The idea is for Joan to return first to Castilla, led by Álvaro Arbeloa, who knows him well and has given excellent reports about him. If he performs well in the reserve team, the jump to the first team will be a matter of time.
An opportunity that combines talent and patience
Joan Martínez isn't coming from outside nor is he starting from scratch. He's grown up at the club, knows the system, the locker room, and many teammates. His time with Juvenil A under Arbeloa has helped him mature.
There are five center-backs in the current squad, but several problems open the door for Joan. Alaba is still injured and could leave, while Asencio hasn't shown the necessary consistency.
Xabi Alonso wants to ensure defensive depth and is betting on Joan as a more than valid solution. This is a story of talent, patience, and second chances.
Joan is coming back stronger than ever and with the full support of the club and the coach. For Xabi, he'll be "much better" than what was initially desired. The future, without a doubt, is smiling on him.