Coach Carlo Ancelotti’s team concluded their summer tour with a less-than-stellar performance, winning only one match, a 2-1 victory over Chelsea, while suffering two consecutive defeats against AC Milan (0-1) and Barcelona (1-2).
However, this isn’t a major concern for Real Madrid fans, as the Spanish giants usually hit their stride during the season. Due to many star players not returning in time, the team wasn’t at full strength during the U.S. tour. Now, top stars Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé are ready to join the team for the upcoming campaign.
Nonetheless, Coach Ancelotti still has some worries, especially regarding the defense. With injuries to David Alaba and Jesús Vallejo, he needs to strengthen the center-back position. According to MARCA, three players—Joan Martínez, Raúl Asencio, and Jacobo Ramón—are expected to make the trip to Poland to face Atalanta. All three participated in the U.S. tour, but only one will make the final roster.
These three young players featured in two out of the three friendlies against Milan, Barca, and Chelsea, giving fans hope that Ancelotti has carefully considered this situation. It also reflects the Italian strategist’s strong risk management skills. Of the three, Joan Martínez has made the biggest impression. Compared to a young Sergio Ramos, Martínez has attracted significant attention and, at just 16 years old, has immense potential for development. Being included in the Super Cup squad would be a huge motivation for Martínez to improve.
Raúl Asencio is also highly anticipated. If a comparison needs to be made with a Real Madrid first-team player from last season, it would be Nacho Fernández. Asencio, now 21, is a star in the Real Madrid Castilla team, making this the perfect time for Ancelotti to “bring him into the spotlight.”
Jacobo Ramón, a 2005-born center-back, is another exciting young talent for Real Madrid. Standing at 1.88m tall, Ramón has a highly-rated defensive skill set.
Ancelotti has five days left to finalize the squad, and this period could be crucial in helping him make his final decision. Real Madrid fans expect the Italian coach to closely evaluate the training performances of these three young players in the coming days.
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