Moroccan talent Youssef Lakhdim set for Real Madrid debut amid defensive crisis
Real Madrid is facing significant defensive challenges in their last five matches of the Spanish league, with injuries to Antonio Rüdiger, Ferland Mendy, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, and Eduardo Camavinga. As a result, coach Carlo Ancelotti has turned to the club's academy in preparation for the upcoming match against Celta Vigo at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium this weekend.
One of the players expected to step up is Youssef Lakhdim, a Moroccan-born player who has been a key figure in the reserve team. Spanish media have suggested that Lakhdim might replace Mendy at left-back. If he plays, it will be his debut with Real Madrid's first team.
There is also the possibility that Lakhdim could be called up for the Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States between June 14 and July 13, 2025.
La idea es que Yusi vaya convocado este fin de semana con el primer equipo. @relevo
— Rodra (@Rodra10_97) May 1, 2025
Lakhdim began training with the first team last Tuesday at Valdebebas, where he impressed Ancelotti and his staff despite being only 19 years old. Known as «Yusi», he is recognized for his exceptional speed and his strong offensive contributions.
Lakhdim chose to represent the Moroccan national team and was called up in March 2024 by the national coach to play in matches against Angola and Mauritania. Prior to that, he had represented the under-20 team, coached by Mohamed Wahbi, at the North African Union Tournament in Tunisia in November 2023, and the international tournament in South Korea in October 2023.
Real Madrid rejected an offer from Getafe to sign Lakhdim last summer, opting instead to extend his contract until 2028, demonstrating their confidence in his promising talent.
As the season progresses, Real Madrid is pushing hard to close the gap on Barcelona, who currently lead the league by four points. The upcoming El Clásico between the two sides on May 11 is expected to be crucial in deciding the fate of the championship.
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