Mourinho impressed as youngster pushes for Real Madrid first-team place

Real Madrid youngster Alexis Ciria has boosted his chances of earning a permanent place in the club’s first-team squad after impressing head coach José Mourinho during pre-season. 

The highly rated winger continued his fine form by scoring in Real Madrid’s 2-2 friendly draw against Fiorentina, further strengthening his case for senior football.

Ciria has enjoyed a rapid rise since joining Real Madrid Castilla in January. He marked his debut with an assist before scoring on his first start and later helped the reserve side win the Youth League title. 

His latest display against Fiorentina has reportedly convinced Mourinho that the teenager has the quality to contribute to the first team during the upcoming campaign.

According to reports from Spanish newspaper AS, the coaching staff intend to give Ciria opportunities with the senior squad while he continues to play a leading role for Castilla. 

Sources close to the club believe his inclusion in the first-team pre-season plans was no coincidence, with Mourinho said to be a strong admirer of the youngster’s natural ability.

The Portuguese manager has maintained high standards throughout pre-season, demanding maximum commitment from both senior and academy players. 

Ciria, however, ensured he was fully prepared for the opportunity by taking only a brief break after last season before returning to individual training under personal coach David de la Hera.

The absence of several World Cup participants, including Vinícius Júnior, who was granted an extended holiday, opened the door for Ciria to impress. 

The winger seized the opportunity with both hands, culminating in his goal against Fiorentina and reinforcing his growing reputation within the club.

Ciria’s progress could also trigger additional payments from Real Madrid to Sevilla under the terms of his transfer agreement. 

The Spanish giants are reportedly required to pay €120,000 once the winger plays at least 45 minutes in an official first-team match, with the total rising to €1.2 million if he reaches ten such appearances. 

With Mourinho increasingly impressed by his performances, the young forward appears well placed to feature in Real Madrid’s plans for the new season.