Real Madrid youngsters hold more sway than ever

The emphasis on the Real Madrid youth system is no bluff. After signing young players and extending the contracts of those who were already at the club, Carlo Ancelotti has demonstrated that he is prepared to put them on the pitch.

During the friendly match against Olympique Lyonnais, the Italian manager ended the game with eight players who have worn the Castilla shirt. Adán, Quini, Mateos, Nacho, Casado, Casemiro, Cheryshev and Morata were all on the pitch when the referee blew the final whistle.

The goalkeeper, who is out of contract, is looking for a new club in order to move on from 'Los Blancos'. As for the defence, composed of Quini, Mateos, Nacho and Casado - something never seen before -, it was one which could easily have been fielded by Toril last season if we were to swap Quini for Fabinho or Juanfran.