Florentino Pérez didn't want to stay idle in this January market and has made several moves to strengthen the lower categories of Real Madrid. The latest example is clear: he comes from Espanyol's youth academy to join Juvenil A. We're talking about Joel Pleguezuelos, a future center-back who, according to Relevo, will fall directly into Arbeloa's hands.
Joel Pleguezuelos is a very physically powerful center-back, right-footed, knows how to move the ball, and is very tall. He has a great future ahead and is considered a strategic transfer. It was hard for him to leave his Espanyol, but he believes the proposal from Real Madrid was practically irresistible and couldn't say no.
Joel Pleguezuelos Confirms His Departure from Espanyol
In a statement posted on his Instagram account, Pleguezuelos took the opportunity to say farewell to Espanyol before joining Real Madrid:
"Today I have to say goodbye to what has been my home for the last six seasons. These have been years full of emotions, learning, and unforgettable moments that I will carry with me always.
I want to start by thanking the coaching staff: every coach, physical trainer, doctor, and staff member who, from day one, trusted me and helped me grow, not only as a footballer but also as a person. To all my teammates, who have been much more than that: friends, brothers of this great family. Sharing the locker room with you has been a privilege and an honor.
I will always carry in my heart the moments we lived, both the good and the toughest ones. I leave knowing that I am a better person and a better player thanks to everything this club has given me. I will carry those values with me at every step I take in the future, proud to have learned them here.
Today I close this chapter with a heart full of gratitude and with the certainty that Espanyol will always be a big part of me."
Changes at Real Madrid
There are problems this season in the lower categories of Real Madrid and they wanted to be addressed. The arrivals of Joel Pleguezuelos and Lamini Fati will help raise the level of the youth academy for the rest of the season and looking toward the future. For the next season, big changes are expected, especially on the benches, where Raúl will leave Castilla and his position will be for Arbeloa.
In any case, at Real Madrid they take their youth academy very seriously and want to ensure the future of the first team.