Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has called up 17-year-old Mario Rivas Lagos to join the first-team squad for their upcoming match against Leganes.
This decision comes after the team has been hit with injuries to key defenders Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Eder Militao.
Rivas, a promising centre-back, has been one of the standout performers in the club’s youth setup over the past season and a half.
His calmness and strength on the field have made him one of the most developed defenders at the club’s Valdebebas training ground.
According to AS, since the end of October, Rivas has been a regular starter for the Castilla team, featuring in 13 consecutive games.
He has formed a solid partnership with Jacobo Raman, known for his impressive skills, often likened to Virgil van Dijk.
This season has been a breakthrough for Rivas, as he has played across four different teams: the Juvenil A in the Youth League, Real Madrid C in Segunda RFEF, Castilla in Primera RFEF, and now, with the first team, he is on the verge of making his senior debut in the Copa del Rey.
To top it off, Rivas also represented Spain’s U-18 team against Italy three weeks ago.
Rivas started his football journey following a path similar to his father, beginning at Betera in Valencia before moving to Getafe, his father’s beloved club.
This season, under the guidance of coach Raul, Rivas has been adapting to the position of centre-back in a three-man defence, alongside two wing-backs. He has thrived in this role, particularly excelling at covering the wide defensive areas.
His ability to read the game and anticipate plays without relying solely on physicality is what sets him apart. While he still has room to grow physically, Rivas’ positioning and intuitive understanding of the game have earned him a reputation at Valdebebas.
Ancelotti has been impressed by the new generation of 2007-born defenders, and Rivas is now on the cusp of making his first-team debut.
Now, it is Rivas who is being given the opportunity to shine and prove himself in Ancelotti’s tactical setup. As he steps into Carletto’s classroom, many are eager to see how this young talent will perform at the highest level.