Real Madrid debutants open up on special first team moment – ‘Happiest kid in the world’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey round of 32 clash against Talavera will be remembered not only for the result, but for the deeply emotional moments it delivered for the club’s academy. 

For two young players shaped by La Fabrica, the night marked the reward for years of hard work, patience, and belief.

One of the standout stories was David Jimenez, who finally stepped onto the pitch with the first team after spending an incredible 13 seasons in Real Madrid’s youth system. 

Speaking after the match, the young defender struggled to hide his emotion as he reflected on the moment. He described the feeling by saying, “I could be the happiest kid in the world. 

“It’s a dream come true. I want to thank the coach, the coaching staff, and all the players who have welcomed me so warmly.” 

Expressing the nervousness

Jimenez also admitted that the nerves were unavoidable at first. Making a debut for Real Madrid is rarely a calm experience, especially in a competitive knockout tie. 

Looking back on those first moments, he explained, “I was nervous. But as time went by, I started to relax. I’m very happy with my debut and the team’s victory.”

Real Madrid beat Talavera in the Copa del Rey. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

The night ended with a personal keepsake that will stay with him forever. His teammates signed his match shirt, a gesture that underlined the unity within the squad. 

Jimenez revealed that he plans to frame it in his room “so I can see it every day,” turning the shirt into a daily reminder of a lifelong dream fulfilled.

Jorge Cestero takes the stage

Jimenez was not the only academy product to experience that feeling. Jorge Cestero, another La Fabrica graduate, also made his first-team debut. 

Reflecting on his moment, he said, “It’s every Real Madrid kid’s dream. It’s come true and I’m the happiest kid in the world. 

“I was a little nervous, but I was really looking forward to going out there. I got changed quickly and flew out there.”

Furthermore, Cestero also spoke about the players who have shaped his development, naming Casemiro and Toni Kroos as the two figures he has studied most closely over the years. 

Source: Real Madrid TV