Real Madrid plan internal push to unlock 18-year-old academy gem’s full potential | OneFootball

According to a recent report from AS, Real Madrid and current manager Alvaro Arbeloa have identified academy talent Joan Martinez as a key project for the near future. 

The club’s plan is to push the youngster harder in his daily work to help him raise his level and accelerate his path towards the first team.

It is said that the confidence in Martinez remains strong despite the fact that he has not yet made his official debut with the senior side. 

Those responsible for youth development see him as a player with clear and natural talent, someone who has the technical and physical tools required to succeed at the highest level. 

There is a genuine conviction that his profile fits what Real Madrid look for in first-team players.

A lot of expectations

While Martinez’s talent is not in question, there is a feeling internally that he can still offer more, particularly in his day-to-day work during the week. 

Real Madrid have high expectations from Joan Martinez. (Photo by Ricardo Nascimento/Getty Images for DFB)

For this reason, the approach is not punitive but motivational. Real Madrid want to challenge Martinez, raise demands around him, and push him out of his comfort zone. 

The idea is that by increasing the level of focus and effort required from him every day, the player will be better prepared to handle the pressure and standards of the first team.

When Martinez performs at his best, confidence inside the club grows significantly. At those peak levels, there is full belief that he could become a useful addition to the senior squad in a very short space of time. 

This is precisely what the coaching staff and sporting department are waiting to see consistently.

Martinez has already had regular exposure to the first-team environment. He has taken part in several training sessions with the senior squad, including on Arbeloa’s first day in charge. 

While he has not yet been included in a matchday squad, his presence in training is viewed as an important step in his development.