Real Madrid debutant exceeded expectations after strong performance against Valencia

Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa was very pleased with the performance of young right-back David Jimenez in the recent match against Valencia.

Now, according to a report from AS (h/t RM4 Arab), the academy graduate has not only justified his selection but also exceeded the expectations of the technical staff.

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The 21-year-old was handed a major opportunity in a high-pressure match.

With experienced options like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal on the bench, Arbeloa trusted the youngster to start at right-back.

It’s a questionable decision, but one that seems to have paid off.

A great performance against a strong team

Jimenez delivered a confident and mature display, showing composure on defense and energy going forward.

It is said that inside the club were already aware of his potential, but the match against Valencia seems to have confirmed that he is ready to take the next step in his career.

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This performance reinforced the belief that he can become a regular presence in the first team.

Real Madrid are already considering the defender as part of the senior set-up and the long-term plan is starting to take shape.

Real Madrid are impressed by David Jimenez. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

The idea is for Jimenez to partner Trent Alexander-Arnold next season, with the two players alternating minutes and competing for the right-back role.

Such a structure would allow the youngster to continue to develop while playing an important role in the team.

A big step

Jimenez is currently in his 13th consecutive season at Real Madrid, having joined the club in 2013 at under-8 level.

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Reaching the first team is the dream of every player at the academy, and he is now living that reality.

The full-back is under contract until 2027 and the club are expected to sit down with him soon to discuss his long-term future.

If he remains in the first-team plans, the path forward will be clear. Otherwise, Real Madrid still want to protect their investment by strengthening his contract, as they see huge potential in the player.

Finally, the match against Valencia was considered internally an important test and Jiménez passed it with confidence.

As such, his performance may have just secured him a more consistent role in the senior team in the months to come.