Real Madrid 17-year-old starlet could make it to the squad for FIFA Club World Cup
Real Madrid 17-year-old starlet could make it to the squad for FIFA Club World Cup
Joan Martinez was one of the main novelties of the pre-season for Real Madrid last summer. But the young La Fabrica talent suffered an ACL injury right after the US tour, ruling him out of action for a prolonged period.
It was a significant setback for the youngster considering that he was likely in for a first-team spot this season with manager Carlo Ancelotti rating him very highly.
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Having undergone surgery and completed his rigorous rehabilitation over past eight to nine months, Martinez is now back in training with the Real Madrid Juvenil A outfit, reports AS.
A Club World Cup spot beckons?
In fact, the report even states that Martinez making it to the Real Madrid squad for the FIFA Club World Cup in the summer is a possibility, even if it is a difficult one.
The teenager is back and training normally with Arbeloa's Juvenil A side. He had been seen resuming ball work a few weeks ago, but now he is fully integrated into the team dynamic. The next step is clear: to gain minutes on the pitch in a competitive setting.
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With the regular season over, Juvenil A are now focused on the Copa de Campeones, a tournament featuring the champions of all the División de Honor groups (and the two best runners-up). At most, it consists of only three matches.
Then there is Raul Gonzalez's Castilla side, who are short on central defenders in their playoff battle and could use someone of Martinez's talents.
Santiago Solari to hold the key
Santiago Solari will lead Real Madrid at the Club World Cup. (Photo by)
As for the FIFA Club World Cup with the Real Madrid first-team setup, it is seen as a truly difficult target, but not impossible for Martinez.
If Ancelotti were to remain in charge, the teenager's chances would increase significantly as the Italian manager has shown a clear preference for the young defender.
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However, as previously reported, the plan is for Ancelotti to step down after the league campaign, with Santiago Solari expected to lead the team in the Club World Cup while waiting for Xabi Alonso to take over.
Solari is well acquainted with the entire academy and could include Martinez, even if only with limited chances to play so as to support his ongoing integration into the first team.
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