Barcelona have recently attracted attention for the use of young players such as Ansu Fati, Garvey and Pedri, and while camp Nou's financial problems force them to recruit young players in the first team may be faster than they would like, La Liga rivals Real Madrid also have a pool of youngsters who are vital to their future. Madrid's finances are less dangerous as they continue to work hard this summer to sign Paris Saint-Germain striker Kelian Mbappe for more than 200 million euros. But they are still led by an old defender, including Karim Benzema (33) and Luka Modric (36). Real Madrid, who have averaged 26.6 years this season, have used six first-team players under the age of 22, while they have made waves with three 23-year-olds: Federico Valverde, Eder Militão and Luka Jovic. They are second in La Liga with a record of 5-1 in eight games so far, and Madrid's depth has been exposed in the shock defeat in the Champions League against Sheriff Tiraspol, but they will be looking for youngsters to fill in some gaps in the coming year or so, quite rather large boots. Real Madrid are less dependent on youth than Barcelona, but resident scout Thor Christian Carlson looks at players who can master the future of the club, shining stars, and let's look forward to the following young talents:
Eduardo Camaringa, 18, midfielder
The France international signed from Rennes for 31 million euros in August and made his best debut in just six minutes against Celta Vigo. Despite his young age, Camaringa is already well known in European football, having played two solid seasons in Ligue 1 and scoring 6 senior league games (and two goals) for Les Blues. The midfielder is seen as a long-term successor to Modric and even Tonic Ross due to his excellent vision, close-range control, excellent passing and dribbling ability (thanks to his ability to play various roles in midfield) So far, Camaringa's career at the Bernabeu has been easy, but well performed, and his performance and personality on the pitch have been praised by head coach Carlo Ancelotti. In addition to his technical and physical skills, he does seem to have the mental qualities to succeed in one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Rodrigo, 20, striker
Two years after his €45 million move from Santos, Real Madrid are still waiting for the critically acclaimed Brazilian midfielder to break out. He has really shown hope so far, his Champions League hat-trick against Galatasaray in 2019 was memorable, and the final winner of last month's match against Inter in the same match also provided a rare boost, however, Rodrigo showed that he was in the flash, and stability remains an issue, he only completed a full 90 minutes for the club four times. Expectations are high and this season feels like a success-or-defeat battle. A potential changemaker, the striker is known for his quick pace, dribbling skills and powerful shots – needing to get back to his form to convince Ancelotti that he's more than just a qualified player.
Vinicius Junior, 21, striker
One of the fastest improving players in Real Madrid over the past year, Vinicius Jr. started the season in an excellent way, scoring four goals in as many league games as possible. The Brazilian — now a full-fledged international who serves mainly as a substitute for Celecao — has struggled with his influence and final product since joining the Spanish giants from Flamengo for €45 million in the summer of 2018, but his recent performance suggests he may have cracked the code of validity. Although initially a winger or winger, he has been more composed in front of goal than before, and his passing ability has improved in the last third (it is noble for him to win a cross to Benzema in September against Valencia). With his acceleration, one-on-one skill and perseverance, Vinicius Jr always offers the potential to impact the game. Compared to his team-mate Rodrigo, who is a year younger and more talented, the 21-year-old has played the biggest role in his Real Madrid career so far, with just 10 games left for his 100th league appearance for the club.
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Miguel Gutierrez, 20, left-back
Gutierrez made reasonable demands on the troubled left-back position after making several appearances late last season. When Ancelotti called him up this season, the 20-year-old did well, especially against Celta and Mallorca. With the 33-year-old Macelo vulnerable to injuries and Flanders Mendy also struggling with his physical condition, new signing David Alaba needs to play as centre-back and Gutierrez could seize the moment to let left-back take his place. The Spain U21 international is a good player; the ball is neat, good at crosses from the back, and the jump in quality doesn't look uncomfortable (from defending the Group B players he's used to facing). On top of that, Gutierrez can benefit from the team's wide range of runs as proof that he is ready to keep playing at the highest level.
Sergio Santos, 20, right-back
Another full-back got a taste of the first team due to a defensive injury crisis. In the absence of Dani Carvajal, Santos played 11 minutes as substitute Lucas Vasquez in the game against Real Mallorca. Having been playing for Real Madrid Castilla last season, the 20-year-old deserves his chance, though it's too early to say whether Santos will be the long-term successor of the 29-year-old Carvajal. The promising defender does have an impressive physique that he is rarely afraid to use; he is not captured in defensive duels and is keen to challenge the ball even when the odds of winning are not in his favour. Arguably, Santos is a better defender than a striker and may still need to improve his left foot, his position and tactical awareness before he is ready for a steady top-level football.
Sergio Aribbas, 20 years old, attacking midfielder
A breath of fresh air came in early 2021 as he came off the bench for the first team, but despite his excellent performance in pre-season, Ancelotti has yet to give him playing time this season. Whether playing on the right wing or in a more central position, the 20-year-old proves his ability to run strongly and his ability to shoot with his left foot from long range. Although only 5 feet 8 inches, Alibas is well balanced and has a hard time hitting the ball when he has control. Although his somewhat extravagant style seems interesting, he still tends to overplay his "artistry".
Antonio Blanco, 21, defensive midfielder
When given the opportunity to shine, Antonio Blanco is impressive. Last season ended in a multi-eventful way for the elegant midfielder: first, he was handed a full league debut by Zinedine Zidane, then was selected to a Spanish team infected with COVID-19 to lead Euro 2020 (he even made his Spanish debut) in a friendly match against Lithuania, but did not reach the final. Antonio was particularly impressive in his second La Liga start, beating Osasuna 2-0, where he dominated the Real Madrid midfield like a veteran, dominating the rhythm of the game and winning back possession. Now on the U21 side of Spain, he is a spectator and his wonderful, fluid touch to the ball is complemented by his dexterity, which makes him excel on the pitch. There is no doubt that he is a very intelligent footballer who plays intuitively. While not always successful, he was confident enough to try bold crosses and positive passing options to propel the team forward. However, Camawinga's arrival may not help his long-term breakout opportunities.
Marvin Parker, 21, right midfielder
Marvin Park has versatility in the front but lacks experience. Another Castilian product that earned Zidane confidence last season, but he has had little recent involvement. Once in the Tranmill Rangers book, Parker was a right-hand midfielder who could play almost anywhere on the flanks. The son of a Nigerian father and a South Korean mother, the Mallorca-born youngster could make tough decisions when it comes to finally deciding which country to play for (he represented Spain in the youth team). As his playing time so far proves, Park Geun-hye has enough speed, and his acceleration and industry are his two hallmarks. He looks more comfortable when he wants to create from the outside of his mark – often wanting to pick a striker by cross rather than running to the centre of the crowded court.