Xabi Alonso bans Real Madrid from selling Diego Aguado, the jewel of the Merengue youth academy
18-year-old defender considered key part of future first-team plans
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has vetoed the sale of 18-year-old defender Diego Aguado, one of the brightest prospects in the club’s youth system, according to Spanish outlet Marca.
Aguado had been placed on the transfer list earlier this summer, but Alonso reportedly intervened to keep the young center-back at the club. The coaching staff believes Aguado has the potential to contribute to the first team in the near future.
Promoted but yet to debut
The teenage defender was called up to the senior squad last season amid an injury crisis but did not make his debut. Despite limited action, Aguado made a strong impression on the coaching staff during training sessions.
His promotion came at a time when Raúl Asencio emerged as a regular partner to Antonio Rüdiger, leaving Aguado on the bench. But Alonso sees long-term value in the Spanish defender and may gradually integrate him into the starting lineup.
Focus on youth development
Xabi Alonso has shown a clear commitment to promoting talent from La Fábrica, Real Madrid’s renowned academy. In addition to Aguado, Jesús Fortea, another defensive prospect, is reportedly being groomed for first-team action.
Another young star, Gonzalo García, earned first-team recognition last season and stood out during the Club World Cup, where he played alongside stars like Vinícius Júnior and Arda Güler.
Mbappé prepares for historic debut
In other news, Kylian Mbappé has officially taken the No. 10 jersey at Real Madrid ahead of the 2025–26 season. According to former PSG teammate Marco Verratti, Mbappé is preparing for a standout campaign and hopes to contend for the Ballon d’Or with his performances in La Liga and the Champions League.
