Real Madrid submit Champions League squad featuring 11 Castilla players
Real Madrid has recently unveiled its squad for the upcoming Champions League group stages, and it features a significant inclusion of 11 young talents from Raul Gonzalez's Castilla side. This move demonstrates Real Madrid's commitment to nurturing and integrating youth into its senior squad. The group stage draw has pitted Real Madrid against formidable opponents such as Napoli, Union Berlin, and Braga.
A notable aspect of this squad announcement is the presence of three young goalkeepers. Thibaut Courtois, despite being sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament injury that is expected to keep him out well into the next year, has been registered in the squad. This suggests the club's faith in his eventual return and recovery. Similarly, Eder Militao, another injured player, has found a place in the squad, as reported by Marca, indicating Real Madrid's anticipation of his return.
Real Madrid's midfield is arguably the deepest in terms of senior players, which has resulted in the inclusion of defensive midfielder Mario Martin from Castilla. It is presumed that Nico Paz will occupy a more advanced role in Carlo Ancelotti's current tactical setup, consistent with his preseason performances. Nico Paz, an Argentina under-20 star, is considered a standout talent from the Castilla squad and is a prime candidate for receiving playing time in the senior team.
Real Madrid's forward line appears to be relatively thin in terms of experienced options, which may open doors for young strikers Gonzalo Garcia Torres and Alvaro Rodriguez. Among the defensive contingent, Vinicius Tobias, a right-back currently on loan, has also secured a place in the squad. However, it's worth noting that Carlo Ancelotti is not traditionally known for extensively fielding young talents unless faced with injury crises. Therefore, these young prospects might have to rely on Real Madrid's success in the group stage to earn their opportunities.
Here's a breakdown of the squad composition:
Goalkeepers:
1. Thibaut Courtois
2. Andriy Lunin
3. Kepa Arrizabalaga
4. Diego Pineiro
5. Fran Gonzalez
6. Lucas Canizares
Defenders:
1. Dani Carvajal
2. Eder Militao
3. David Alaba
4. Nacho
5. Fran Garcia
6. Antonio Rudiger
7. Ferland Mendy
8. Rafel Obrador
9. Alvaro Carrillo
10. Marvel
11. Vinicius Tobias
12. Lucas Vazquez
Midfielders:
1. Jude Bellingham
2. Toni Kroos
3. Luka Modric
4. Eduardo Camavinga
5. Federico Valverde
6. Aurelien Tchouameni
7. Dani Ceballos
8. Mario Martin
Forwards:
1. Brahim Diaz
2. Arda Guler
3. Nico Paz
4. Vinicius Jr
5. Rodrygo Goes
6. Joselu
7. Alvaro Rodriguez
8. Gonzalo Garcia
In essence, Real Madrid's Champions League squad for the group stages underscores the club's commitment to blending experience with youth. While established stars hold key positions, the inclusion of these 11 talented youngsters from Castilla reflects Real Madrid's long-term vision and the belief in the potential of its youth academy graduates. These emerging talents will be eager to seize any opportunities that come their way and make a mark on the grand stage of European football.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0