Real Madrid want to keep Álex Ciria developing with Castilla this season, even after the 18-year-old signed off pre-season with one goal and one assist. Jose Mourinho is pushing for patience rather than a quick jump to the senior squad, with the teenager expected to stay close to the first-team set-up while getting regular minutes.
Castilla plan for Ciria
Ben Fernandes, speaking to Defensa Central, said Mourinho wants Ciria to remain with Castilla this season, where he can continue developing while staying close to the first-team set-up. He also added that Ciria could still get opportunities around Mourinho’s squad, and that a competitive La Liga debut should not be completely ruled out.
That is the balance Real Madrid appear to be choosing. Ciria has done enough in pre-season to get attention, but the club are not treating that as a reason to rush him.
Mourinho's wider academy approach
The same approach is said to apply to Joan Martinez, who is also expected to receive a similar mandate. Real Madrid’s academy has already generated around €199 million through player sales and income from rights retained in former academy products, which is a reminder that the club are comfortable letting young players develop on their own timeline.
The senior side’s form also gives them room to do that. Real Madrid have won four of their last five competitive matches, scoring nine and conceding two across that run. Mourinho does not need to force a teenager into the mix for cover, and that makes the patient route easier to justify.
Ciria’s next stage is straightforward enough: keep playing for Castilla, stay close to the first team and wait for the moment that opens up.
Written by Daniel Hartley with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 1 outlet. How we work →
