Real Madrid Confidencial Xabi Alonso counts on these 2 youth players for Real Madrid 2025-26, they will go to the World Cup
Joan Martínez and Jacobo Ramón are expected to travel with the team to the Club World Cup
Real Madrid is already starting to shape its squad for the 2025-26 season. Xabi Alonso is clear that he wants to keep betting on the youth academy.
The new white coach has made an important decision: Joan Martínez and Jacobo Ramón will be part of the expedition that will travel to the Club World Cup in the United States.
Both are center-backs. Both have convinced the coaching staff in recent months.
Castilla center-backs with a future
Joan Martínez is one of La Fábrica's biggest projects. With good ball distribution, security in tackles, and great tactical ability, he was one of the positive surprises of the preseason.
Meanwhile, Jacobo Ramón has had notable progression. His physical strength, aerial play, and defensive aggressiveness make him a very reliable option.
Xabi Alonso knows young players well. He already proved it at Bayer Leverkusen, where he trusted talents like Wirtz or Hincapié. At Madrid, he wants to repeat the formula.
That's why he takes a step forward with Joan and Jacobo.
A list of 36 players
The Club World Cup will allow up to 36 players to be registered. That opens the door to several youth players.
Real Madrid wants to take advantage of that rule to integrate prospects who could be part of the first team next season.
In defense, injuries have hit hard this year. Although the return of Militao, Carvajal, Alaba, and Rüdiger is already expected, the club wants to have all positions well covered.
Joan Martínez and Jacobo Ramón will not only travel. They could also get playing time if circumstances allow.
Xabi wants youth academy in his project
Xabi Alonso's message is clear: the youth academy must have weight in the new project. These two defenders are the first chosen.
The club also values this bet positively. Economically, it is a sustainable path. Sportingly, it offers bench depth and a sense of belonging.
With Joan and Jacobo, Madrid adds youth, enthusiasm, and defensive talent. They will be part of the Club World Cup. But they are also called to stay in the 2025-26 squad.
Xabi Alonso already has his two center-backs of the future. They are homegrown.
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