Back
According to a report by Madrid Universal on Friday, October 30, 2026, Real Madrid are taking a careful approach to the development of teenage midfielder Sergio Martinez, who is yet to make his first-team debut despite attracting considerable attention following his arrival at the Spanish club.
The report states that Real Madrid see the €3 million signing as a long-term investment and are not interested in rushing his development. Under manager Jose Mourinho, the club want the young midfielder to gain enough experience and adapt to their footballing demands before being considered for a regular place in the senior squad.
Martinez attracted the attention of Real Madrid after playing an important role in helping Racing secure promotion to La Liga. His performances during that campaign showed his potential, while scoring on his debut in Spain’s top division further increased interest in his abilities.
Real Madrid had been monitoring his progress for some time before deciding to complete his transfer. Following his arrival, Martinez was initially given opportunities to train with Mourinho’s first-team squad. He was also included in a senior matchday group, suggesting that the club were interested in assessing how quickly he could adapt to the higher level.
However, his situation has since changed, with the midfielder now playing for Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s reserve team. He is working under coach Julian Lopez de Lerma as he continues his development in Spain’s Primera Federacion, also known as First RFEF.
The decision is understood to be part of a wider development plan. Moving from Racing to Real Madrid involves more than adjusting to a different football team. Martinez must also become familiar with a new environment, the club’s playing philosophy and the expectations that come with representing one of Europe’s biggest sides.
Despite his current position in the reserve team, Real Madrid remain satisfied with his potential. The reported four-year development plan gives the club time to assess his progress without placing unnecessary pressure on him to make an immediate impact.
Mourinho is also keen to manage the youngster’s introduction to senior football carefully, with comparisons being made to Franco Mastantuono’s early integration into the first team.
For now, Martinez’s main responsibility is to establish himself at Castilla, deliver consistent performances and continue improving. Real Madrid believe that allowing him to develop gradually will give him a better opportunity to eventually compete for a place in Mourinho’s senior squad.