Real Madrid’s pre-season tour has not been very enjoyable, to say the least. The team has lost both its opening games against AC Milan and Barcelona and they head into their third clash looking for a first win.
While disappointing from a results perspective, the US tour has not been without its own silver lining.
Young academy stars have got their chance to shine under Carlo Ancelotti and Mario Martin is one such player who has taken his chances with both arms extended.
With the start of the new season less than a fortnight away, Real Madrid are looking to finalise the list of players they count on. Needless to say, Martin makes a strong case for his inclusion.
Here are three reasons why Los Blancos must keep the 20-year-old star in the squad.
Lack of natural DMs
The only natural defensive midfielder in Real Madrid’s current squad is Aurelien Tchouameni. While he is indeed one of the best in the business, the club does not have any backup option in the position.
Toni Kroos, who served as a backup pivot last season, is no longer at the club while Eduardo Camavinga is better placed in advanced midfield. Martin, thus, could pitch in as a handy option.
With Real Madrid entering the season with just three centre-backs, Tchouameni will likely be forced to play in defence on occasion. Martin’s services, on such occasions, will be priceless.
Good pre-season
The biggest reason for Real Madrid to stick with the academy star is undoubtedly his quality through pre-season.
Martin has been training under Carlo Ancelotti’s command for close to a month now and has even served as the team’s starting defensive midfielder for both the opening pre-season clashes.
Starting against AC Milan, he recorded a stunning 16 defensive actions in 90 minutes.
His performance in El Clasico was only more impressive as he racked up 98% pass accuracy, completed 100% of his long balls and recorded seven defensive actions.
Great potential
At just 20 years of age, Martin’s quality in midfield is well-known across Europe. Real Valladolid and Espanyol, in fact, were even interested in signing the star to secure a deal.
The youngster is widely known as the ‘Casemiro of the youth team’, especially given his tenacity, commitment to the crest and solidity in midfield.
Flawless with his distribution and solid with challenges, Martin has shown that he is ready to play at the elite level. His ceiling is sky-high and Real Madrid must look to unlock his best version.