Real Madrid academy talent will receive minutes vs Leganes; could start in derby vs Atletico | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been dealt a huge setback ahead of a crucial period in the season as they have lost two centre-backs – Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba – to injuries in quick succession.

Rudiger suffered an injury during last weekend’s La Liga clash against Espanyol and is expected to be out for close to three weeks.

Meanwhile, Alaba’s adductor injury was confirmed earlier today, with the Austrian international also set to be sidelined for two to three weeks.

With Eder Militao also out with an ACL injury and the winter transfer window closed, Carlo Ancelotti has been left with very few options in central defence.

Jacobo Ramon’s chance to shine

As such, MARCA reports that this could end up being a key week for Real Madrid academy talent Jacobo Ramon, who made his official first-team debut only recently against RB Salzburg.

The 20-year-old La Fabrica product is set to receive some minutes in tomorrow’s Copa del Rey clash against Leganes where Raul Asencio and Aurelien Tchouameni are expected to start as the two centre-backs.

More opportunities for Jacobo Ramon? (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

If Ramon manages to make an impression in the cup tie and the subsequent training sessions over the week, the Spaniard may well be in with a chance to start in the derby against Atletico Madrid.

After all, despite Ancelotti’s faith, Tchouameni has been a big liability while playing as a central defender and Real Madrid cannot afford any slip-up in La Liga, with both Atleti and Barcelona hot on their trail.

Asencio, given the breakthrough he has had this season, appears set to start in the upcoming games in Rudiger and Alaba’s absence.

And if Ramon manages to impress in the minutes he receives vs. Leganes and in the rest of the training sessions this week, a start against Diego Simeone’s Rojiblancos could very well be on the cards for the youngster.