Real Madrid has made waves by including 16-year-old defender Joan Martinez in their preseason tour of the United States. With a shortage of central defenders, Martinez’s inclusion is both a practical necessity and a nod to his remarkable potential.
Martinez, who joined Real Madrid in 2023 from Levante’s youth system, has quickly risen through the ranks. His journey began with the under-17 squad, but his impressive performances soon saw him promoted to Alvaro Arbeloa’s under-19 team. He even participated in training sessions with Raul’s Castilla team. Now, his hard work has earned him a spot on Real Madrid’s prestigious preseason tour, providing a platform to showcase his talents.
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Real Madrid’s defensive line-up for the US tour is notably thin. Only Antonio Rudiger and Jesus Vallejo are available from the start, with Eder Militao expected to join later. Alongside Martinez, Castilla defenders Jacobo Ramon and Raul Asencio have also been included. This situation presents a golden opportunity for these young players to catch the eye of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Standing at 6’2″, Martinez combines speed and athleticism, allowing him to make crucial recovery runs and tackles. His tactical awareness and ball-handling skills make him a well-rounded defender. Known for his last-second sliding challenges and confident forward runs, Martinez has drawn comparisons to Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos. This resemblance is further accentuated by his hairstyle, reminiscent of a young Ramos.
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The club has yet to decide whether Martinez will play for Castilla or the under-19s in the upcoming season. However, his selection for the preseason tour underscores Real Madrid’s faith in his abilities. Fans eagerly anticipate seeing Martinez in action, particularly in the first friendly match against AC Milan.
As Real Madrid embarks on their US tour, all eyes will be on Joan Martinez. His performances in training and matches will be closely monitored by Ancelotti and his coaching staff. With the club unable to secure Leny Yoro and following Nacho Fernandez’s departure, Martinez has a unique chance to stake his claim for a more regular role in the first team.
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Martinez’s inclusion in the US tour is a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. At just 16, he has already drawn comparisons to Sergio Ramos, hinting at a bright future. If he continues on his current trajectory, Martinez could become a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s defence in the years to come.
