Mario Martín: Real Madrid youngster gunning for a spot in the first-team | OneFootball

The man in question, Mario Martín is the captain of Real Madrid Castilla, Carlo Ancelotti regards him very highly and as previously reported, he’s likely to join the pre-season squad for their trip to America.

Diario AS have been comparing him to Real Madrid legend Casemiro, describing him as a ‘silent leader‘, a player who never fixes to be the centre of attention but rather controls things from the background.

Ten months ago, Mario Martín missed out on his opportunity. Now, he’s primed for his ‘comeback’. Last summer, a shoulder operation sidelined him from the first-team’s preseason plans. Despite the temptation to battle through and spend time with the first-team, he opted for surgery.

Thanks to a speedy recovery, fueled by the club’s support, he’s back on track. Real Madrid Castilla’s season hasn’t been an easy one, but Mario’s stature remains unaltered. Both in La Fábrica, where he’s an on-field extension of his coach, and in the eyes of Ancelotti, who admires his demeanour and abilities.

There’s serious consideration for him to join the squad heading to the US in July. It would be a well-deserved reward for the academy’s ‘Casemiro’. For now, his focus is on making sure Castilla win in Ibiza this Sunday, to give his side the best chance of staying up in a tight relegation battle in the Primera Federación division.

Despite the challenges, Mario has carved a niche for himself, earning call-ups to the first-team bench and even getting minutes in the Copa del Rey. Mario’s journey reflects his unwavering commitment to his footballing dreams, rooted in Madrid since childhood.

GSFN | Ciaran Currie