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Who's the youth? Five U20s Real Madrid fans must watch

While football has temporarily been taken away from us, take some time to familiarise yourself with your club's brightest stars, who might start making a name for themselves when games resume...



Takefusa Kubo

Dubbed the "Japanese Messi" for his incredible ball control and diminutive frame, Takefusa Kubo is one of the most highly-rated youngsters on the planet.

Los Blancos fought off some heavy interest from Barcelona and PSG to acquire Kubo's services last summer following the 18-year-old's impressive displays on the Japanese football scene.

Despite being just 18-years-old, Kubo is slowly becoming an integral part of the Japanese National Team having already made seven appearances for the Asian football giants.

Kubo is yet to make his Real Madrid debut, but he has been impressive at Mallorca, where he has scored three goals and registered two assists in 15 appearances.

With Luka Modric going into the twilight of his illustrious career, Kubo is expected to battle it out with Martin Odegaard for a chance to replace the Croatian magician in the heart of Real Madrid's midfield.

Video Courtesy of Teo CRi



Cesar Gelabert

Cesar Gelabert was brought into Real Madrid's youth ranks back in 2015, and since then, the Spanish youngster has garnered a reputation as one of the brightest young players at Madrid.

The 19-year-old currently plies his trade for Real Madrid's B team, where he's been impressing coaches and scouts alike, so much so that he's caught the attention of Mikel Arteta with the Spanish tactician reportedly keen on recruiting Gelabert once the summer transfer window opens up.

Gelabert boasts speed, mesmerising dribbling ability and versatility. Primarily an attacking midfielder, Gelabert can be deployed on either flank or as a centre-forward, making him a tactical menace in the attacking third.

Due to the nature of Real Madrid's recruitment process, the 19-year-old is unlikely to break into Madrid's first team any time soon, but considering the interest from top European sides, Gelabert could be plying his trade elsewhere come next season.

Video Courtesy of WorldOfFootballHD



Reinier

Signed for 35m from Flamengo back in January, Reinier is expected to go on to achieve great things at Real Madrid.

35m isn't that big a deal in today's footballing market, however, it's still a significant chunk of money to spend on an 18-year-old. But considering what Reinier is capable of, he's worth the hefty price tag.

Reinier is not your typical Brazilian football talent. While he does possess a lot of flair, his physicality and speed of thought is what truly sets him apart from his peers.

Standing at 6'2, Reinier is a hard man to knock off the ball, and he uses it to his advantage, often holding the ball up to lay it off to his teammates.

Despite his huge frame, Reinier also boasts incredible technique, granting him the ability to create space and dictate the tempo of a game.

Reinier currently plies his trade in Real Madrid's B team, but he's expected to be introduced to the first-team in the near future, probably even as soon as next season.

Video Courtesy of ScoutNationHD



Miguel Baeza

Despite being a midfielder, Baeza is currently the top scorer in Real Madrid's Castilla side - a testament to his ability in front of goal.

20-year-old Miguel Baeza is one of the most exciting youngsters in Madrid at the moment. He's put up impressive showings for Madrid's B team this season, proving to be an integral part of the squad.

Baeza plays in a number 10 role for Madrid's Castilla, where he often makes runs into space looking to make himself available for a one-two or a shot on goal. He's very active in the attacking third as he's always looking to make something happen when the ball is at his feet.

He hasn't made his Real Madrid debut yet, but based on his current performances, it won't be long before Zidane notices him and brings him into the first team set-up.

Video Courtesy of Vylela



Pedro Ruiz

The first thing you notice about Pedro Ruiz is his height. The 20-year-old striker boasts a towering 6'4 frame which allows him to contest for aerial duels effective, making him more of a threat than the average striker.

He has been likened to Zlatan Ibrahimovic because of his huge frame, although Ibrahimovic is one inch taller than him.

Like Ibrahimovic, Ruiz is more than just a 'tall player'. The Spaniard is adept at using both feet, he's a great passer of the ball and he has a couple of tricks up his sleeve for going past players in 1 v 1 situations.

Ruiz is yet to make his Real Madrid debut, however, Real Madrid recently extended his contract until 2022, which is a good sign in terms of his potential first-team involvement.

Video Courtesy of Phini

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