The situation of Dani Carvajal has been much talked about in recent weeks. The serious injury of Dani Carvajal, which will keep him out for the entire season, has raised doubts about Real Madrid's defense. Speculation about his position has grown, highlighting Jesús Fortea, a promising talent from the youth academy.
Carvajal's injury
Dani Carvajal has been an essential pillar in Real Madrid's defense in recent years. His absence due to injury has left a significant gap on the right flank.
Although fans were initially worried about not seeing the starting full-back in the first team, the club has remained calm and focused on its future options. The club has confidence in the alternatives that the youth academy can offer, such as Fortea.
Jesús Fortea: the full-back with the greatest projection
Jesús Fortea is considered by many in Valdebebas as the right-back with the most projection from the Madrid youth academy. Although he hasn't debuted with Castilla, his evolution has been constant since he joined Madrid in 2022, after leaving Atlético.
At just 17 years old, Fortea has stood out in Juvenil A and has been a key piece in the UEFA Youth League. This season, he works with Álvaro Arbeloa in Real Madrid C, where he continues to hone his talent.
Fortea's future: a decision coming in March
Despite the rumors and media attention caused by Carvajal's injury, Real Madrid maintains its calm stance. The club's policy is clear: be patient with young academy players and wait for the right moment to make decisions about their future.
In Fortea's case, it is expected that in March 2025, when he turns 18, official talks about his stay at the club will begin. This is something that is done with all academy players who reach adulthood, and there will be no exceptions with the young full-back.
The non-aggression pact and the bet on the youth academy
Fortea's signing by Real Madrid broke the non-aggression pact regarding the youth academy that existed between the club and Atlético de Madrid. However, time has shown that the bet on the young full-back has been the right one.
Although he is a great promise, Real Madrid bets on his gradual development, trusting that he can reach the first team in the future. Despite his injury, Carvajal is aware of the talent emerging from the youth academy.