Atletico scoring machine opens up on story behind his Real Madrid trial – ‘It was wonderful’ | OneFootball

Long before Julian Alvarez became one of the most dynamic forwards in the world, he experienced a moment that could have changed the direction of his entire career. 

Few supporters realise that the current Atletico Madrid star once had a trial at Real Madrid, where he made an immediate impact by scoring twice in five matches during a youth tournament. 

His dream of joining Los Blancos ended only because age restrictions prevented the club from signing him.

Recalling the moment

Alvarez revisited those early memories during an interview on Jose Ramon de la Morena’s podcast (h/t SPORT), where he reflected on the remarkable journey that took him from his hometown of Calchín to the Spanish capital at just 11 years old. 

“I was playing in my hometown, and it was the Under-20 World Cup in Argentina. 

“Ramon Martinez from Madrid went there and got in touch with someone who knew me from Cordoba, and that’s how I got the opportunity to go to Madrid for a few days for a trial.”

Once in Spain, Alvarez took part in a youth competition that featured Real Madrid’s academy teams. 

Julian Alvarez had a trial with Real Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

“We played a tournament in Peralada with Madrid’s youth teams. In the semifinals, we played against Barça and won on penalties. I have fond memories of those moments.”

So what happened?

Despite performing well in the trial, Alvarez ultimately returned to Argentina, as Real Madrid were unable to sign him due to regulations. 

Even so, he looks back on that trip with tremendous affection. “It was wonderful, going from a small town to having the opportunity to travel abroad. 

“My father had never travelled by plane before. It was a very nice experience. It was just one more experience among all the trials I did at other clubs.”

One particularly charming detail from his visit was the chance to watch two matches at the Santiago Bernabeu as a guest of Real Madrid. 

For a young Alvarez, witnessing that moment live added yet another unforgettable moment to an already extraordinary childhood adventure.