Valdepeñas, the wildcard that could change Xabi Alonso's night

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Valdepeñas
160.000€    -

J1

DF

00

Trained in Villa Rosa and Rayo, he landed in Valdebebas in 2018 to strengthen the U-12 team. After a modest start - the club decided not to renew his contract in 2020 - he gained experience at CD Leganés, where he caught the attention of several teams. Later, Real Madrid brought him back and his progression accelerated: U-16 C, U-18 A with Arbeloa, Real Madrid C, and this season, Castilla, where he has established himself as a regular partner of Joan Martínez. In the reserve team, he has the full support of Álvaro Arbeloa, and coaches emphasize his competitive mentality and commitment. Real Madrid profile

A different left-back

Standing at 1.88 meters with a powerful stride, Víctor Valdepeñas offers a blend of physical presence and athletic ability that is out of the ordinary. A natural left-footer, with good ball control, he has played both as a left-back and a center-back, versatility that has made him a reliable asset for a demanding Castilla team. His speed peaks - over 34 km/h - highlight that he can contribute on both sides of the game: holding up in defense and posing a threat when he moves forward.

The opportunity in the first team

He had already been called up by Carlo Ancelotti in previous squads - as a substitute against Villarreal and on the roster for a Champions League match against Manchester City - but without minutes. Now the context is different: with the left flank depleted due to injuries and suspensions, Xabi Alonso is forced to rely on the available talent, and the academy player will start against Alavés. For the coach, the clash against Alavés comes with the scent of an ultimatum; for the player, it's the opportunity of a lifetime in a night of maximum demand for the whites. Alavés profile

From reject to 'three-in-one'

His career has not been linear. After leaving in 2020 for not meeting expectations, his growth at Leganés brought him back to the white orbit. He didn't start the season as a starter with Arbeloa, but he seized his moment: since matchday 7, he hasn't left the starting lineup, playing close to 800 minutes, and is the second most used center-back after Joan Martínez. At Valdebebas, they see him as a 'three-in-one': a defender who blends physical toughness, tactical intuition, and adaptability to the situation. He is the first academy player to debut with the Basque in charge; we will be attentive to his performance tonight, as Xabi Alonso's future is more uncertain than ever.