Real Madrid have big plans for 17-year-old academy ace in 2025/26 season | OneFootball

Real Madrid are already preparing for the next season under new manager Xabi Alonso, and one of the standout names in the latest update from AS is 17-year-old centre-back Joan Martinez.

Despite missing the last campaign due to a serious injury, Martinez is now part of the club’s long-term plans and may soon be training with the senior squad.

It is to be noted that Carlo Ancelotti faced plenty of problems with injuries in central defence last season, and Madrid want to make sure they are better prepared this time.

Alonso need another centre-back

With Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, Raul Asencio, Dean Huijsen, and David Alaba already in the mix, that makes five centre-backs.

But Xabi Alonso may shift to a three-at-the-back system, meaning the club needs a sixth and that role is being earmarked for Martinez.

Real Madrid have big plans for Joan Martinez. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

Though Martinez is still recovering from a torn cruciate ligament that sidelined him for the whole season, his performance during the pre-season tour in the United States left a strong impression on the coaching staff last year.

At just 17, Madrid are taking a careful approach with him. His immediate playing time will come with the Castilla side, where he can rebuild fitness and confidence.

Training with the first team

Madrid’s plan is simple but smart: ease Martinez back through youth matches while gradually introducing him to the rhythm of the senior team.

He will train regularly with the first team and is expected to become a familiar face in that setup, even if he plays matches for Castilla on weekends.

While Jacobo Ramon could see earlier call-ups due to fitness and sharpness, Martinez remains the jewel of the youth system.

If all goes well, he could even end up as the fifth-choice centre-back by the time next season kicks off, which is a massive show of trust from Xabi Alonso and the club.