Soccer player in a white Real Madrid uniform on the field during a match pointing with his hand
FIRST TEAM

Official: the player who's renewed his contract with Real Madrid and signs until 2029

Mario Rivas, 18-year-old center-back, has renewed his contract and is considered by many one of the greatest prospects

Real Madrid has secured the continuity of one of their most promising talents. Mario Rivas, an 18-year-old center-back, has renewed his contract, which will extend until 2029.

The Seville native joined Madrid's youth academy in 2021 and will remain tied to the club for five more seasons.

In addition, his new release clause has been set at 50 million euros, a figure that reflects the club's great trust in his potential.

Rivas was promoted to Castilla ahead of schedule. At just 17 years old, he made the leap from Juvenil A due to injuries and a lack of available defenders in the reserve team.

Far from struggling, he earned the status of undisputed starter. He has started in 30 matches, accumulating more than 2,700 minutes in Primera Federación.

A Real Madrid player controls the ball while an opponent from the team in blue and black uniform faces him in a soccer match.
Mario Rivas in the Youth League | Real Madrid

His performance hasn't gone unnoticed. He stands out for his defensive qualities: he's strong in tackles, has good ball distribution, and is noted for a maturity beyond his years. Mario is already considered one of the pillars of Álvaro Arbeloa's project for next season.

From promise to reality

Mario is considered by many to be one of the most promising talents from La Fábrica. Height isn't his strength, 6 ft. (1.83 meters), but that doesn't stop him from standing out. His anticipation, speed, and tactical discipline impress his coaches.

He turned 18 in March and hasn't stopped growing since. Carlo Ancelotti included him in three first-team drafts during the season.

The defender barely spent time in the Juvenil A locker room. He only played in the Youth League. He was soon drafted by Real Madrid C and then by Castilla, where he has established himself.

Two players compete for the ball during a match, one wearing a white uniform and the other wearing a yellow uniform.
Mario Rivas against Villarreal | Real Madrid Confidencial

A different path

Born in Seville, Mario started playing soccer in Valencia, at a modest club called Bétera. He then moved to Getafe, where he spent five years.

In 2021, Madrid brought him into their youth academy. Starting from Cadete B, he climbed the ranks until reaching the reserve team. In September 2023, he was drafted to the under-17 national team, playing in three matches.

Now, with a long contract and reinforced status, the next step is clear. Mario Rivas wants to make his debut at Santiago Bernabéu.

In Valdebebas, they're certain: there's a center-back for years to come. Mario is both the present and future of Real Madrid.

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