In 2018, Real Madrid introduced a policy where every young player who turns 16 is given an “Anti-Sheikh” release clause worth €30 million, aimed at protecting them from being lured away by the wealth of Manchester or Paris clubs. If the coaching staff determines that a player is progressing rapidly, they are offered a new contract with a release clause of €50 million.Over the past year and a half, more young players—barely entering their 20s—have swapped South America and Europe for Saudi Arabia. To prevent the loss of their most promising La Fábrica talent, Joan Martínez, Real Madrid signed a new contract with the player, who was born in 2007.UCL: The biggest scalp in Lille history – Real Madrid fall at Stade Pierre-MauroyToday, Martínez signed the new contract in the offices of Valdebebas, accompanied by his parents, brother, and agent Javier Koss. His new agreement includes a €50 million release clause. This move also shows the club’s support for their top prospect, who is currently recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury. This injury is essentially the only reason why Martínez is not already competing for a first-team spot. The youngster suffered the injury just days before he was expected to play in the UEFA Super Cup match against Atalanta in mid-August.##NAJAVA_MECA_8388911##Martínez was a standout during Real Madrid’s preseason, and Carlo Ancelotti was keen to bet on him, given the team’s somewhat limited roster of central defenders. By renewing his contract, the club has improved the player’s personal terms during his youth phase (which officially lasts until 2026) and protected him from any potential exits, similar to those seen at Barcelona’s La Masia over the years, when youth players transitioned to the senior level—or even earlier. Consider the cases of Cesc Fàbregas, Gerard Piqué, Mauro Icardi, Héctor Bellerín, Mikel Arteta, Eric García, André Onana, Dani Olmo, Marc Cucurella, Xavi Simons…🚨 REAL MADRID SEAL NEW DEAL WITH JOAN MARTÍNEZ!The 17-year-old centre-back has signed a contract until June 2026, with plans to extend further when he turns 18. The club shows full support after his ACL injury, setting a release clause over €50 million.#RealMadrid… pic.twitter.com/HHSod8m79r— João Neves (@jon_snow_pt) October 4, 2024 Martínez first caught the club’s attention with outstanding performances in the UEFA Youth League, where he played against older players at just 15. He displayed confidence, defended solidly, and remained composed against opponents two or three years older. He is fast, well-coordinated, and, despite his 190 cm height—likely not his final growth—he moves impressively. He is aggressive when necessary, relaxed when playing high and covering large areas… Naturally, caution is always necessary with young players, but Martínez has impressed in the youth ranks, and his recovery from injury is now the club’s primary focus.
