The Castilla experience felt different from the start, away from the bright lights of the Bernabéu, a more intimate feeling, where young players can grow in a professional environment, far from the pressures of the main stage.
The fans gathered in far greater numbers than I expected at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano, and the support lasted the entire 90 minutes. The level of football immediately grabbed my attention; the players were already operating at an incredibly high level of football.
It was compelling to believe that you’re not simply watching a match in the 3rd tier of Spanish football, but you’re watching what could be next, names which may be etched into the halls of global football.
Real Madrid Castilla won 2–0, and did so convincingly. Control, quality, and a level of confidence throughout.
Following the match, another layer was added to the experience: seeing ex-Real Madrid footballer Álvaro Arbeloa, managing Castilla, in the post-match press conferences served as a reminder of the deep-inherited history and integrity of the club, in shaping the next generation of superstars.