Emerging Talents: Real Madrid's Under-the-Radar Prospects to Keep an Eye On
Entering the 2023/24 season, Real Madrid has an impressive roster of exceptionally talented young players.
While stars like Vinicius Junior, Eduardo Camavinga, Rodrygo Goes and recent addition Jude Bellingham are widely recognized, several lesser-known talents could make a significant impact during the upcoming pre-season. Let’s take a look at these young players:
Reinier Jesus, 21, Attacking Midfielder
Despite his €30 million signing in 2020 and subsequent loans to Borussia Dortmund and Girona, Reinier Jesus has yet to feature in Real Madrid’s senior squad. At 21, there’s still ample time to resurrect his career with “Los Blancos”. If given a chance in pre-season, he could demonstrate the potential that once made him a top-rated teenage prospect.
Marvel, 20, Centre Back
Marvelous Antolin Garzon, often referred to as “Marvel,” is a left-footed central defender with versatile capabilities. Under-19 coach Dani Poyato likened him to Alaba due to his strong defensive skills and ability to play wide. Having impressed with Real Madrid Castilla, the young Spanish talent is primed for a step up to higher levels.
Alvaro Rodriguez, 19, Centre Forward
Familiar to Real Madrid enthusiasts, Alvaro Rodriguez has already showcased his impact by scoring crucial goals for the senior team, including a late equalizer against Atletico Madrid. With the departure of Karim Benzema and limited striker options, Rodriguez could find himself assuming a more significant role in the upcoming season.
Sergio Arribas, 21, Attacking Midfielder
Despite multiple senior team appearances over the past three years, midfielder Sergio Arribas has yet to break through fully. Given Real Madrid’s midfield depth, he is joining Almería on loan for the next six seasons.
Arda Guler, 18, Attacking Midfielder
Arda Guler already boasts senior-level experience with Fenerbahce, providing him an edge over fellow Real Madrid prospects. The Turkish international’s decision to join Real over Barcelona highlights his ambition. However, Real Madrid’s promising young talent has recently undergone arthroscopic knee surgery, causing him to face an anticipated six-week recovery period before returning to the pitch.
Nico Paz, 18, Attacking Midfielder
Another young talent, Nico Paz, is receiving exceptional reviews, with midfielder Toni Kroos even telling MARCA: “This lad should train with us every day because he’s outstanding.”
The young Argentine has shone in the UEFA Youth League and attracted the attention of Borussia Dortmund.
Lucas Canizares, 21, Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Lucas Canizares, following in the footsteps of his father Santiago, who also emerged from Real’s youth system, holds promise. His participation in Real’s Club World Cup success underscores his potential. While displacing Thibaut Courtois may be challenging, Canizares has time to prove his mettle.
Emerging Talents: Real Madrid's Under-the-Radar Prospects to Keep an Eye On
Entering the 2023/24 season, Real Madrid has an impressive roster of exceptionally talented young players.
While stars like Vinicius Junior, Eduardo Camavinga, Rodrygo Goes and recent addition Jude Bellingham are widely recognized, several lesser-known talents could make a significant impact during the upcoming pre-season. Let’s take a look at these young players:
Reinier Jesus, 21, Attacking Midfielder
Despite his €30 million signing in 2020 and subsequent loans to Borussia Dortmund and Girona, Reinier Jesus has yet to feature in Real Madrid’s senior squad. At 21, there’s still ample time to resurrect his career with “Los Blancos”. If given a chance in pre-season, he could demonstrate the potential that once made him a top-rated teenage prospect.
Marvel, 20, Centre Back
Marvelous Antolin Garzon, often referred to as “Marvel,” is a left-footed central defender with versatile capabilities. Under-19 coach Dani Poyato likened him to Alaba due to his strong defensive skills and ability to play wide. Having impressed with Real Madrid Castilla, the young Spanish talent is primed for a step up to higher levels.
Alvaro Rodriguez, 19, Centre Forward
Familiar to Real Madrid enthusiasts, Alvaro Rodriguez has already showcased his impact by scoring crucial goals for the senior team, including a late equalizer against Atletico Madrid. With the departure of Karim Benzema and limited striker options, Rodriguez could find himself assuming a more significant role in the upcoming season.
Sergio Arribas, 21, Attacking Midfielder
Despite multiple senior team appearances over the past three years, midfielder Sergio Arribas has yet to break through fully. Given Real Madrid’s midfield depth, he is joining Almería on loan for the next six seasons.
Arda Guler, 18, Attacking Midfielder
Arda Guler already boasts senior-level experience with Fenerbahce, providing him an edge over fellow Real Madrid prospects. The Turkish international’s decision to join Real over Barcelona highlights his ambition. However, Real Madrid’s promising young talent has recently undergone arthroscopic knee surgery, causing him to face an anticipated six-week recovery period before returning to the pitch.
Nico Paz, 18, Attacking Midfielder
Another young talent, Nico Paz, is receiving exceptional reviews, with midfielder Toni Kroos even telling MARCA: “This lad should train with us every day because he’s outstanding.”
The young Argentine has shone in the UEFA Youth League and attracted the attention of Borussia Dortmund.
Lucas Canizares, 21, Goalkeeper
Goalkeeper Lucas Canizares, following in the footsteps of his father Santiago, who also emerged from Real’s youth system, holds promise. His participation in Real’s Club World Cup success underscores his potential. While displacing Thibaut Courtois may be challenging, Canizares has time to prove his mettle.
