Real Madrid is not exactly a club that is seen often relying on their own youth products. While there is undeniable talent there, it is often overshadowed by the sheer presence of the ‘Galacticos’ that are signed. However, on the rare occasion that Real Madrid does gamble with their youth, they do not tend to disappoint.
Such was the case in their Copa Del Ray clash against Arandina, where two starlets from Real Madrid Castilla started in the team’s defensive structure. Vinicius Tobias, a Brazilian fullback, and Alvaro Carrillo, a Spanish central defender, both marked a start together for the Real Madrid first team.
After the game, as highlighted by Tribuna, the 21-year-old Spanish defender was in awe of the experience. Winning 3-1 was a great experience in its own right, but to do it with the Real Madrid first team was beyond surreal for Carrillo:
“It’s a dream come true, I still can’t believe it. I’m so happy, it’s the best Christmas present I’ve ever had. I’ll never forget this day. I dreamt about this before I came here, when I started playing football in Murcia.“
Even ahead of the game, the Spaniard admitted that it was hard to relax:
“I’ve always worked, fought, and tried to do my best. In the end, life rewards you like this. I was really nervous. I tried to take a nap but I couldn’t because I was so nervous.“
However, he did state that the experience and calmness exuded by the team’s veterans always helped the youngsters of the team to play their best:
“Those with more experience tell us youngsters to stay calm and enjoy ourselves. We’re all together, we’re Real Madrid players.”
Lastly, he could not stop but admit just how much he is going to cherish this moment and even the shirt that he got to wear for the clash:
“I’m going to frame this shirt. I’m going to wear it at home. I’m going to cherish this shirt forever.”
With both Eder Militao and David Alaba out with long-term injuries, and Real Madrid still competing for four titles this season, Carrillo can look ahead to getting even more minutes with the first team in the coming months.
However, as things stand, the experience that Carrillo and Tobias have already lived will definitely keep them happy for a very long time.
