Real Madrid’s Jacobo Ramón Makes Champions League Debut at 20

MADRID, Spain — Jacobo Ramón, a 20-year-old defender from Real Madrid‘s youth academy, fulfilled a lifelong dream by making his official debut with the first team in a Champions League match against Salzburg on January 22, 2025. Wearing the number 31 jersey, Ramón entered the game in the 78th minute, replacing Antonio Rüdiger in a match that ended in a 5-1 victory for Real Madrid.

Ramón, who has been part of Real Madrid’s youth system since joining the Benjamín B team at just eight years old, has steadily risen through the ranks. Despite battling injuries earlier in the season, his perseverance paid off as he became the fourth academy player to debut under coach Carlo Ancelotti in 2025. Earlier this year, Lorenzo Aguado, Diego Aguado, and Chema also made their first-team debuts, showcasing the strength of Real Madrid’s youth development program, known as La Fábrica.

“Jacobo is a player with immense potential,” said Juli Carmona, assistant coach of Real Madrid’s youth team, who once labeled Ramón as “the best center-back in Europe for his age.” Standing at nearly 1.90 meters, Ramón excels in aerial duels and possesses a strong right foot, making him a versatile asset for the team. His technical skills and ability to read the game have earned him praise from coaches and teammates alike.

Ramón’s journey to the first team was not without challenges. A muscle injury in October 2023 sidelined him temporarily, but he returned to full fitness and recently started two consecutive matches for Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s reserve team. His performances against Alcoyano and Betis Deportivo demonstrated his readiness for the big stage.

Ancelotti, known for nurturing young talent, has shown confidence in Ramón’s abilities. “He has the qualities to succeed at this level,” the coach remarked after the match. Ramón’s debut adds to a growing list of academy graduates making an impact this season, including Asencio and Yáñez, who debuted earlier in the campaign.

Ramón’s rise is a testament to Real Madrid’s commitment to developing homegrown talent. As the club continues to compete on multiple fronts, the integration of young players like Ramón ensures a bright future for both the team and its storied academy.