Alonso Set to Unleash Hidden Young Talent at Real Madrid's Core

Reports suggest Xabi Alonso has his eye on 17-year-old Joan Martínez as a potential defensive addition for Real Madrid in the upcoming season.

Following a 2024-25 campaign where Real Madrid struggled with defensive injuries, Alonso is determined to strengthen his new team's backline. The Spanish giants have already secured Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen this summer, and are reportedly pursuing Benfica's Álvaro Carreras as well.

However, Alonso appears to want additional defensive options for the 2025-26 campaign. According to AS, the Spanish manager is keen to integrate Martínez into the first-team setup. The young center back is considered one of the most promising talents in Real Madrid's academy and could see increased opportunities under Alonso's leadership.

Martínez was sidelined for the entire previous season due to an ACL injury, but had previously made an impression during Real Madrid's preseason matches last summer. Despite being just 16 years old at the time, the defender performed admirably against top clubs like AC Milan and Barcelona during matches in the United States.

Alonso is reportedly taking a cautious approach given Martínez's recent recovery from injury. Sources indicate there is "no rush" to promote the teenager, though he remains one of Alonso's primary options should the manager decide to add a sixth center back to the squad. The plan apparently involves having Martínez "train regularly" with the first team.

While it seems unlikely the 17-year-old would displace established defenders like Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militão, Raúl Asencio or Huijsen, he could potentially take minutes from David Alaba, who has struggled to regain his form following his own ACL injury last season and has reportedly fallen down the pecking order at the club.

With a tight schedule between the FIFA Club World Cup and the start of the 2025-26 La Liga season, additional depth at center back will benefit Real Madrid in their campaign to reclaim the Spanish title from Barcelona. The opportunity now lies with Martínez to capitalize on any chances that come his way.