Real Madrid News
Official: Real Madrid secure the signing of young goalkeeper dubbed as ‘new Courtois’
Real Madrid has officially secured the long-term future of one of Spain’s most promising young talents, Izan Ramirez, reports Defensa Central.
The Spanish U-16 international, who celebrated his 16th birthday in February, has committed his future to the club by signing his first professional contract, keeping him at the Santiago Bernabéu until June 30, 2028.
The renewal comes as a major victory for La Fábrica, as Ramirez had reportedly become a primary target for several La Liga clubs.
Numerous rival teams had already presented offers to integrate the teenager into their respective reserve squads, highlighting the immense potential the young shot-stopper possesses.
Who is Ramirez?
Ramirez originally joined the Cadete A squad in 2024 after a highly successful eight-year stint in Sevilla’s youth system.
During his time in Andalusia, he gained national recognition by being named the best goalkeeper in the prestigious Liga Promises tournament.
This early accolade made him an essential target for Real Madrid’s recruitment department, which consistently seeks to identify and develop the premier talents in Spanish football.
The next Thibaut Courtois?
Standing out due to his impressive physical frame and technical upside, Ramirez is already being likened to the first team’s wall, Thibaut Courtois, reports Defensa Central.
Those who have followed his progression through the youth ranks cite his size and potential for growth as clear indicators that he could follow in the Belgian’s legendary footsteps.
While he remains in the early stages of his development, the trajectory is clear. Given that reserve teams were already vying for his signature, a promotion to Real Madrid Castilla is expected in the near future.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
