Real Madrid has long been proud of its exemplary youth academy, a talent factory that has produced numerous great footballers throughout its history. Fans of the club reminisce about the legendary “Quinta del Buitre,” an unrivaled generation that left an indelible mark on Spanish football. In subsequent years, players like Nacho, Lucas Vázquez, and Dani Carvajal have continued this legacy, establishing themselves as vital components of the first team. However, in recent times, the club has modified its strategy, opting to allow young prospects to experience playing time elsewhere while ensuring the inclusion of buy-back clauses. This tactic provides an opportunity for players to mature and potentially return if they reach the level required to wear the iconic Madrid jersey.
Among those youth players on the verge of potentially returning to the Santiago Bernabéu are four names: Chema Andrés, Nico Paz, Jacobo Ramón, and Rafa Marín. Each is carving out their path outside of Madrid with hopes of making a grand return.
Chema Andrés stands out as a particularly notable case. This summer, he moved to Stuttgart, where he quickly became a key figure in the German midfield. At 1.90 meters tall, he commands respect on the pitch, yet his abilities extend well beyond his physical presence; he showcases excellent distribution, arrives effectively from deeper positions, and has already netted one goal and provided an assist this season. He’s playing alongside Angelo Stiller, another player who had connections with Madrid. The club is able to re-sign him for €13 million in 2026 or €16 million in 2027, a seemingly low price given his current trajectory.
Another player under intense scrutiny for a potential return is Nico Paz. The Argentinian, who was developed at Valdebebas, moved to Como to seek more playing time and creative freedom. His decision has paid off immensely: during the 2024/25 season, he dazzled in Serie A, scoring six goals and providing eight assists, making him one of the most promising young midfielders in the league. Possessing remarkable vision and a sharp, precise striking ability from distance, he has displayed maturity beyond his years. In the new season, he has already accumulated three goals and three assists, piquing Real Madrid’s interest once more, with a buy-back option of just €9 million in 2026 or €10 million in 2027. Should he return, Xabi Alonso—who is likely to coach the team then—will have a complex task finding his place in a midfield brimming with talent.
Also at Como, another academy product shines under the guidance of Cesc Fàbregas: Jacobo Ramón. The central defender joined this summer based on Fàbregas’s personal recommendation, earning trust from the outset. He has played six official matches, showing character and composure, despite a red card in one outing. His buy-back clause mirrors that of Nico Paz.
Rafa Marín, on the other hand, is enjoying a consolidation phase in La Liga. After a tumultuous stint at Napoli, the central defender found a home at Villarreal on loan, where he has become a regular under Marcelino García Toral. His reputation is backed by eight appearances and one goal, showcasing his steady defensive prowess and continuous growth. His buy-back clause is higher—€25 million in 2026 or €35 million in 2027—reflecting the ongoing faith Madrid has in him.
Four distinct journeys, yet all stemming from the same foundation. Real Madrid’s academy continues to cultivate talent across Europe, eagerly awaiting the day when one of its prodigal sons is ready to return to the Bernabéu and claim the position they once dreamed of holding. This nurturing of talent within the club speaks to a hopeful future where former youth players can rejoin and contribute to the legacy of one of the world’s most celebrated football institutions.