AS reports that on his first day as coach, Xabi Alonso met some of his brightest young talents at Real Madrid’s Infantil A team in Valdebebas, including two of the tallest players, Jacobo Ramon and Chema Andres.
Now, seven years later, all three have reunited in a promising scenario. While Alonso takes charge of the first team, Ramon and Andres are making their mark at Castilla, having already debuted with the senior squad and aiming for a spot in the 2025-26 Real Madrid roster.
Among the emerging prospects, Chema Andres looks set to secure a place in the first team. Known for his versatility and broad midfield range, Andres has impressed under Raul in the reserve side and earned playing time in La Liga and the Copa del Rey with Ancelotti. With Alonso at the helm, this season is a critical opportunity for him to break into the senior squad.
Jacobo Ramon is also a key candidate, though overcoming the “shyness” noted by Ancelotti will be crucial. He faces competition from fellow youth player Joan Martinez as Real Madrid prepares to finalise its next generation of talents.
Meanwhile, Iker Gil remains a notable figure despite setbacks. The 20-year-old striker, who scored 120 goals in two and a half seasons in Madrid’s youth ranks, was once seen as a future star. However, a cruciate ligament injury while captaining the U-17s stalled his progress. Currently on loan at Ejea in Segunda RFEF, Gil is set to return to Valdebebas, with hopes for a potential revival under Alonso’s guidance.
Other young players on the club’s radar include Yusi, a left-back likely to attract offers due to heavy competition with Mendy, Fran Garcia, and the expected arrival of Alvaro Carreras, and Hugo de Llanos, a versatile midfielder balancing minutes between Juvenil A, Real Madrid C, and Castilla.
As Xabi Alonso begins his tenure, Real Madrid’s youth prospects are poised for an important season, with several players aiming to step up and make their mark on the first team.
