Joan Martinez (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
17-year-old Joan Martinez, once tipped as the "new Sergio Ramos", is back in training after a serious knee injury and could feature in next month's Club World Cup.
Joan Martinez, one of Real Madrid’s most promising defensive talents, has officially returned to training after a year-long absence due to a torn ACL. The news has been met with enthusiasm by Madrid fans who remember the 17-year-old’s rapid rise last summer before injury halted his progress.
Martinez impressed during pre-season preparations in 2023 and was reportedly being seriously considered by Carlo Ancelotti for first-team opportunities. Spanish media even dubbed him the “new Sergio Ramos” due to his defensive aggression and maturity. However, a cruciate ligament tear in his left knee ruled him out for the entire 2024/25 season.
Now fully back in training, the defender could make his highly anticipated return to action at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, where Real Madrid are expected to showcase a refreshed squad.
Next season, Xabi Alonso is expected to take over as Real’s head coach, and Martinez’s return may be timely. Alonso, known for cultivating high-energy defensive systems at Bayer Leverkusen, could look to integrate dynamic young talents like Martinez as he reshapes Madrid’s backline.
Real Madrid are also set to confirm the signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold, a further sign that defensive restructuring is a key focus heading into the summer.
Joan Martinez, who hails from Alginet in Valencia, began his youth career at Levante before joining Real Madrid's academy in 2021. Now, after a long and difficult recovery, he could be set for a major breakthrough on the global stage.