Real Madrid's Midfield Target Reveals Dream of Sensational Return to Santiago Bernabéu
Stuttgart's central midfielder Chema Andrés acknowledges that representing Real Madrid is "the aspiration of every footballer," though he emphasizes he's not currently focused on making his way back to Spain's capital city.
The product of Madrid's youth system featured in two La Liga matches under Carlo Ancelotti last term and was included in Xabi Alonso's roster for the Club World Cup during the summer months. After the competition ended, Madrid negotiated a €3 million ($3.5 million) transfer for the defensive midfielder, and Chema has begun his German adventure impressively.
The Spain Under-21 representative accumulated seven Bundesliga outings before the November international window, making his mark in the center of the pitch with his commanding stature and distinctive shirt-tucking style.
Chema has earned comparisons to 2024 Ballon d'Or recipient Rodri for more than just visual similarities, and speculation has already emerged regarding Madrid potentially reacquiring the 20-year-old to strengthen their midfield ranks in 2026.
Real Madrid Could Consider Multiple Midfield Reinforcement Options
During a conversation with AS, Chema was questioned about a potential "dream" comeback to the Santiago Bernabéu, but the promising 20-year-old midfielder stressed that pursuing such an opportunity isn't his primary concern.
"It represents every footballer's aspiration," Chema explained. "That's not where my attention lies. I'm still developing and need to focus on daily improvement, and currently I'm concentrating on the Under-21 fixtures and then Stuttgart, where I feel extremely content. The treatment I'm receiving here is extraordinary."
Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeneß has praised the Spaniard extensively since his arrival, characterizing Chema as "exceptionally mature, determined and level-headed."
Madrid will undoubtedly enhance their midfield department next year, with Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and Como's Nico Paz also being mentioned as targets. Paz represents another former academy talent who appears ready to rejoin Madrid soon, with the Spanish club holding the right to repurchase the Argentine for just €9 million ($10.5 million) next summer.
Chema's repurchase option is understood to be €13.5 million ($15.7 million) in 2026 and €18 million ($20.9 million) in 2027. Considering that the 20-year-old has limited senior playing time, it might be premature to arrange the Spain U21 international's comeback at season's end.
Chema is thriving in Germany, and permitting him to mature for several years with Stuttgart could prove to be the prudent approach.