Promising Real Madrid defender picks up fresh ankle injury | OneFootball

According to a report from AS, Real Madrid youth team defender Jesus Fortea is set to be sidelined for nearly a month after suffering a sprain to his left ankle. 

The young right-back, who plays for Real Madrid Castilla, sustained the injury during the Premier League International Cup clash against Southampton, forcing him to leave the field in the eighth minute.

Upon returning to Madrid, Fortea underwent an MRI scan, which fortunately ruled out any major damage. 

However, the medical results did confirm ligament involvement, meaning the injury is a severe sprain that will require a few weeks of rest and rehabilitation. 

While the news brings relief that the setback is not long-term, it still represents a blow for both the player and Castilla manager Alvaro Arbeloa, who will now have to find a short-term replacement.

As a result of the injury, Fortea will miss several key fixtures in the coming weeks. He has been ruled out of Castilla’s match against Talavera, as well as the upcoming UEFA Youth League tie against Liverpool. 

Jesus Fortea will be out for a month. (Photo by Ricardo Nascimento/Getty Images for DFB)

Additionally, he will be unavailable for Spain’s U19 national team training camp, which begins on November 10.

Promising youth team star

Fortea’s absence will be felt deeply within the squad. The teenager has emerged as one of the most promising defenders in Real Madrid’s youth setup, known for his technical ability and tactical maturity well beyond his years.

It is worth remembering that Fortea came very close to leaving the club earlier this year. 

Back in May, he was “one step away” from signing for AC Milan, with negotiations between the Italian side and the player’s representatives progressing rapidly. 

However, the situation took a dramatic turn following Xabi Alonso’s arrival as Real Madrid’s manager. 

The new manager is believed to have personally intervened, making it clear that Fortea was part of his long-term plans and urging the club to ensure his continuity.