Carlo Ancelotti, a name synonymous with football success, has a knack for spotting young talent. Throughout his illustrious tenure at Real Madrid, he's handed La Liga debuts to seven promising teenagers. Let's dive into where these once budding stars are today, exploring their journeys from their debut under Ancelotti to their current standing in the football world.
Odegaard's arrival at Real Madrid at just 16 set the stage for a high-profile career. Despite facing early challenges and a lack of immediate impact at Real, Odegaard found his rhythm at Arsenal, becoming one of Europe's most admired playmakers. His story is a testament to the non-linear path of football development.
Despite scoring against Atletico Madrid, Latasa has found minutes hard to come by this season, spending most of his time with Real Madrid B. The competition for places in the senior team is fierce, leaving Latasa's future at the Bernabeu in question.
Since his debut in September 2021, Camavinga has become an indispensable part of Real Madrid's midfield at just 21. His rapid ascent to becoming one of the world's premier midfielders underscores his exceptional talent and Real's prowess in developing young stars.
Guler, the 'Turkish Messi,' has struggled to cement his place at Real Madrid. Limited game time has sparked rumors of a potential loan move. Yet, Guler remains focused on contributing to Real's campaign and the Turkish national team, with his future at the club still undecided.
Paz has shown promise in his appearances for Real Madrid, especially shining in the Champions League against Napoli. At just 19, his potential is undeniable, making him a player to watch in the coming years.
Valverde's move to Valencia on loan signifies his pursuit of consistent first-team football. With a purchase option available to Valencia, Valverde's long-term future at Real Madrid appears uncertain, highlighting the competitive nature of the squad.
Garcia's debut and subsequent performances have earned him high praise, particularly from Real Madrid legend Raul. His standout showings for Castilla and a promising debut for the senior team suggest a bright future ahead.
These seven players, each at different stages of their careers, reflect the varied paths talents can take after debuting under a manager like Ancelotti. Whether they've moved on to find success elsewhere, like Odegaard, or are still navigating their path at Real Madrid, their journeys underscore the unpredictable and thrilling nature of football careers.
Charlotte Smith is an acclaimed British journalist known for her vivid and astute coverage of La Liga. Her profound understanding of Spanish football, coupled with her engaging writing style, makes her articles a must-read for fans seeking an English perspective.