Cestero: The Rising Star Captivating Real Madrid’s Attention

In a matter of weeks, Jorge Cestero has transformed from a promising talent in Castilla to a player under the watchful eye of Xabi Alonso. The 19-year-old defensive midfielder’s journey has been marked by setbacks and remarkable comebacks, showcasing his resilience and potential.

Last season was expected to be pivotal for Cestero as he aimed to solidify his position in the Juvenil A team under coach Álvaro Arbeloa. However, a severe shoulder injury in the summer of 2024 sidelined him for several months, just as the season was gearing up. This unfortunate setback came at a crucial time when the Aragonese midfielder was poised to become a key figure for his squad. Nevertheless, Cestero made a triumphant return by the end of October, rejoining the team and quickly securing his place in the starting lineup against Rayo Vallecano. From that moment on, he began to accelerate his development.

Rapid Ascension in Castilla

Cestero’s tactical awareness and ability to orchestrate play quickly earned him a vital role in Arbeloa’s setup. He became instrumental in guiding his team to victory in the Juvenil championship, and his performances did not go unnoticed as he was promoted to Castilla—a bold move that has proven successful. Now, five months into his promotion, Cestero has established himself as a linchpin for Castilla, starting in 14 out of 16 league matches while also serving as team captain. His rise has been characterized by consistency and maturity beyond his years.

Xabi Alonso Takes Notice

This impressive trajectory has caught the attention of Xabi Alonso, who has been dealing with an array of injuries within the first team. Recently, Cestero was included in the professional squad, making appearances on the bench against Manchester City and Alavés before finally making his official debut in the Copa del Rey. Following this milestone, Alonso praised him, stating, “Cestero is a very interesting player.” This endorsement from the head coach underscores the trust placed in him as he steps into a more prominent role within the club.

The club has also acted swiftly to secure Cestero’s future by extending his contract with a release clause nearing €150 million—an indication of Real Madrid’s faith in his potential. Wearing the number 14 jersey in homage to Casemiro, Cestero is not only recognized internally but also externally; Transfermarkt estimates his market value at €3 million, positioning him among Castilla’s most valued players. Arbeloa previously remarked, “For me, Cestero is the best number six in Spain at his age,” highlighting the high expectations surrounding this young talent.

As Jorge Cestero continues to develop at Valdebebas, he stands as one of the brightest prospects emerging from Real Madrid’s youth academy—one to watch closely as he carves out his future with the club.