Over the past few years, many players raised in Real Madrid's academy have gone on to play professionally for Atlético Madrid: Marcos Llorente, Saúl, Mario Hermoso, Álvaro Morata… However, many fans may not be aware that their new star, Julián Álvarez, also spent time at Real Madrid’s academy… although for a short period of time.

Why did Julián Álvarez reject Real Madrid?

It was the 2010-2011 season, with José Mourinho starting his tenure as Real Madrid's coach, when a young Julián Álvarez, only 11 years old, traveled with his parents from Argentina to Madrid for a 15-day trial. In fact, not long ago, several photos of him at the Santiago Bernabéu with Kaká and Higuaín went viral.

“Real Madrid was looking for talent in South America, and indeed, when I went to Calchín to see him, the first thing I noticed was that he was skillful, fast, struck the ball well, and had a lot of personality. So we traveled to Spain, and they tested him in a tournament in Peralada, where he performed in the best possible way,” said Piero Foglia, the great discoverer of Julián Álvarez, in MARCA.

“Julián is in the perfect place”

It’s a case that reminds of Neymar Jr., who also had a trial with Real Madrid a few years earlier. The same as Kylian Mbappé. However, they all ended up rejecting Real Madrid for the same reason: their bond with their families. “That’s what a footballer needs to keep growing, as he has done to become a player who has won the Champions League, Copa América, and the World Cup…”

Interestingly, Julián Álvarez scored against Real Madrid during his first season in Europe with Manchester City. The same as just a week ago with Atlético Madrid. Few players dare to reject Real Madrid. But one cannot say it has not worked out for him. “That no to Madrid was the best decision. Julián is in the perfect place,” said Piero Foglia.