‘Every child dreams of this opportunity’ – Real Madrid’s newest gem opens up after emotional debut | OneFootball

Real Madrid may not have enjoyed the perfect season in terms of trophies, but the club’s academy continues to deliver reasons for optimism.

One of the biggest positive moments from the 1-0 victory over Sevilla came late in the game when 21-year-old academy graduate Alvaro Leiva stepped onto the pitch for his senior debut at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan.

The youngster replaced Jude Bellingham in the closing minutes and became the latest product of La Fabrica to earn an opportunity with the first team this season.

Feelings after debut

Speaking after the match, Leiva could barely hide his emotions as he described the moment he had dreamed about since childhood.

“Every child dreams of this opportunity to make his debut for the best club in the world and the club of my life. 

“I’m absolutely delighted with the opportunity the manager has given me. It’s a very nerve-wracking time and you still can’t quite believe it. 

“It’s true that until you step onto the pitch and feel it all, you don’t believe what you’re experiencing.”

Advice from Arbeloa

Leiva also shared the advice given to him by manager Alvaro Arbeloa moments before entering the match.

“He asked me to be myself: a player who creates danger, who dribbles well and has potential. He also told me to work hard defensively.”

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Leiva’s debut means he becomes the eighth academy player to feature for Real Madrid’s senior side this season.

Over the years, Real Madrid have often been criticised for prioritising superstar signings over academy talent, but this campaign has shown a different side of the club. 

Injuries, fixture congestion and squad rotation have opened the door for several young players, and many of them have taken their opportunities impressively.

More from Leiva

Leiva himself appeared full of confidence while discussing the overall level coming through the academy setup. 

In fact, he even suggested that the quality inside La Fabrica is strong enough to compete with the physical demands of English football.

“You can see the work the academy does. Any player can give you the quality needed for the Premier League. 

“It’s clear that, with the standard we’ve got, we’re cut out to play in the Premier League.”

Real Madrid supporters always connect strongly with academy products. That is why moments like Leiva’s debut often leave a strong emotional impact on fans, especially during difficult seasons.

Speaking about the special memory, Leiva concluded, “I’ll give it to my mum to frame at home, so we can always remember it.”

Source Real Madrid official website