Real Madrid News
Real Madrid starlet expresses gratitude after debut vs Alaves: ‘I dreamed of this moment’
Real Madrid’s win over Deportivo Alaves last night was impressive on multiple levels, especially when one considers the circumstances in which it arrived.
One of Xabi Alonso’s big concerns ahead of the game was the left-back position where he was left with no resources after both Fran Garcia and Alvaro Carreras were suspended.
He eventually counted on 19-year-old academy talent Victor Valdepenas to start against Alaves in the department and form part of the team’s back-line.
The youngster, surprisingly, played a rather smooth game with seven duels won, three tackles won, and six defensive contributions.
Valdepenas’ heartfelt message
Taking to his Instagram after making his debut last night for Real Madrid, the academy star poured out his happiness and pride over having donned the first-team crest and defended it against Deportivo Alaves.
“Ever since I was a child I dreamed of this moment. Yesterday that dream came true, debuting in La Liga with Real Madrid,” he penned.
He then delivered his appreciation to all his well-wishers and support system who helped him get to where he stands today.
“Endlessly grateful to my family and friends for their unconditional support, as well as my coaches and technical staff for the trust, opportunities, and support they have given me all these years that made this possible.”
Finally, the player penned out his desire to live many more games with the first team, and that the game last night was only the beginning of something special.
“Now, I am looking forward to getting better and enjoying moments like this.”
With Carreras and Garcia set to return for the upcoming games, Valdepenas will likely go back under the radar in the first-team plans. There is, however, a chance that the manager sees him fit to start in the Copa del Rey clash midweek to reward his promising display yesterday.
Real Madrid News
Carlos Espi reacts after scoring match-winning goal in Elche 2-3 Real Madrid: ‘Starting like this is a dream’
Carlos Espi is becoming Real Madrid’s unlikely late-game specialist.
The 21-year-old once again came off the bench to rescue Jose Mourinho’s side, this time scoring the 91st-minute winner in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was his second goal for the club, and both have arrived at crucial moments.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Espi could barely contain his excitement.
“I’m so happy—the happiest man in the world. I try to help the team any way I can, and every time I step onto the field, I give it my all and come away feeling great.
“Starting like this has been a dream. This isn’t over yet; we’re going to keep going because we have Sunday’s match coming up.
Carlos Espi winning goal in Elche vs Real Madrid game. Mbappe assist. pic.twitter.com/STJBV3ikQL
— Daily Foot Vibes (@dailyfootvibes) September 16, 2026
“This is a team effort. All of us who take the field make the most of our opportunities and give it our all,” he began.
Espi keeps making his minutes count
There is a growing pattern to Espi’s involvement. Even though he has yet to start a match for the first team, that has not stopped him from making an impact.
His first goal arrived against Espanyol in Real Madrid’s opening game, when another late strike helped secure the result.
Against Elche, he was required again after Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal lead and suddenly found themselves in serious trouble.
Espi eventually appeared at the back post in the 91st minute and finished the move to give Mourinho’s team all three points.
The youngster shared the credit with his teammates, but he also had special praise for the player who supplied his decisive moment.
That assist came from Kylian Mbappe, whose presence has made Espi’s route into the starting XI particularly difficult.
“It’s unbelievable—it’s crazy to watch him train and play. In this case, he set me up for the goal, and I’m very happy for him, too.”
First Madrid derby already has Espi excited
The timing of Espi’s latest contribution could hardly be more interesting, as Real Madrid now face Atletico Madrid on Sunday, giving the forward an opportunity to experience his first Madrid derby.
“I’m really looking forward to it—I’m so excited. It’s my first derby here, and we’re going to go for it.”
For Mourinho, Espi is a useful option when matches become chaotic. He may not yet be a regular starter, but his two appearances on the scoresheet have carried considerably more weight than the minutes he has played.
