In a surprising development, Real Madrid has decided to promote young defender Jacobo Ramón to the first team to cover for Antonio Rüdiger, who is sidelined following surgery on his left knee. This decision underscores the club’s confidence in its youth system and the importance of La Fábrica in developing new talent.

Antonio Rüdiger, a 32-year-old German defender, underwent successful surgery for a partial tear in the external meniscus of his left leg. After more than seven months of dealing with recurring pain in both knees, the player will be sidelined for six to eight weeks, which will prevent him from playing for the remainder of the season. The club hopes he will be able to participate in the Club World Cup in June. 

In addition to his injury, Rüdiger faces a possible ban of between four and 12 matches in LaLiga for throwing an object at the referee during the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona. This incident has added pressure on Real Madrid’s defense at a critical point in the season. 

Jacobo Ramón Naveros, born in Madrid on January 6, 2005, is a central defender who has excelled in Real Madrid’s youth teams. Since arriving at La Fábrica at the age of 8, he has risen rapidly through the ranks, becoming a starter for the U19s and then Real Madrid Castilla. In the 2022-2023 season, he was part of the team that achieved a historic treble, winning the Copa del Rey, the UEFA Youth League, and the Liga Nacional.

Ramón made his first-team debut on January 22, 2025, replacing Rüdiger in a UEFA Champions League match against RB Salzburg. His performance was solid, and he has since gained the confidence of the coaching staff. On February 5, 2025, he made his debut in the Copa del Rey against CD Leganés, demonstrating his ability to adapt to high-level competition.

Faced with a shortage of central defenders due to injuries to Rüdiger, David Alaba, and Éder Militão, coach Carlo Ancelotti has decided to promote Jacobo Ramón to the first team. This move not only covers Rüdiger’s absence but also offers the young defender an opportunity to gain experience at the top of European football.

Ramón’s promotion reflects Real Madrid’s philosophy of investing in its youth system and fostering local talent. With his imposing height of 1.96 meters, his speed, and tactical intelligence, Ramón has the potential to become a pillar of Real Madrid’s defense in the coming years.

With Ramón’s addition to the first team, Real Madrid is looking to maintain the defensive solidity that has characterized the club in recent seasons. Along with Raúl Asencio and Aurélien Tchouaméni, Ramón will form a defensive line that, although young, promises great potential. The coaching staff is confident that this blend of youth and experience will allow the team to face the upcoming challenges with determination and success.

Rüdiger’s injury has been a setback for Real Madrid, but it has also opened the door to new opportunities. Jacobo Ramón, with his talent and dedication, is ready to seize this opportunity and prove that the Real Madrid youth system remains an inexhaustible source of talent and hope for the future.