Real Madrid strikes where it hurts the most for Atlético de Madrid again. Gabriel Castrelo, one of the most exciting prospects from the red-and-white academy, has decided to leave the colchonero club to join the eternal rival. According to Relevo, the young talent will be part of Real Madrid Castilla, a team managed by Raúl González Blanco.
This departure is a hard blow for Atlético, which continues to see its academy lose important assets to its neighbor. Castrelo, only 18 years old, has stood out this season in the División de Honor and in the UEFA Youth League, where he has played 21 matches and scored 8 goals. His great performances didn't go unnoticed, and Real Madrid has taken advantage of the situation to incorporate one of the most promising names in the colchonero youth football.
Castrelo's decision follows the trend of other similar moves in recent years. Names like Jesús Fortea, Yeremaiah Ramos, or goalkeeper Sergio Mestre also chose to switch sides. The footballer has been sidelined since December 21 by Atlético de Madrid, and Real Madrid has already announced his signing, according to RELEVO.
An attractive project for young players
Real Madrid Castilla has become a springboard for the most promising players in Spanish football. The possibility of working under the guidance of a legend like Raúl González, along with the projection offered by the white club, is a lure hard to resist. Moreover, the recent history of players who have reached the first team from Castilla reinforces the idea that the white club offers a clear path to the elite.
Meanwhile, Castrelo's departure once again highlights Atlético de Madrid's problems in retaining its talents. Although the red-and-white club has been at a great level for years and quite above the whites, it fails to surpass the appeal of its neighbor. This raises doubts about Atlético's ability to consolidate a project that not only develops players but also keeps them.
Gil Marín opens the door for him
Gabriel Castrelo's departure is a significant loss for the red-and-white academy. The player was not only shaping up to be a future reference in the first team but was also a leader within the lower categories. His decision to follow in the footsteps of other former teammates like Fortea or Mestre highlights the need for a rethink in Atlético's strategy to retain its best assets.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid continues to strengthen its youth football structure and makes it clear that they don't hesitate to fish in the neighbor's house. Castrelo's arrival not only strengthens Castilla but also sends a clear message: Real Madrid is willing to continue strengthening its academy and weakening its rivals.