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Forgotten Real Madrid defender Jesus Vallejo has responded to claims that he is set to miss out on his side's pre-season tour of the USA through injury. The centre-back is back with Los Blancos after spending the 2023-24 season on loan at Granada, who were relegated from LaLiga.
European champions Real are facing an impending defensive problem from pre-season as they find themselves light at centre-back this summer. The club is set to head out on tour without their senior defenders due to injuries and international commitments.
Carlo Ancelotti had pencilled down the name of Spanish defender Jesus Vallejo as one to make the trip to the USA, but reports emerged of the 27-year-old picking up an injury.
Vallejo was rumored to be out of the tour with a muscular problem, but he quickly took to X to articulate a response and dispel the rumors.
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"This information is not correct. I am not injured and I am traveling to the US Tour. 😄⚽️ #HalaMadrid."
Real Madrid already missed out on French teenager Leny Yoro, who was their first-choice target for this summer in defense. They have also sanctioned the sale of Rafa Marin to Napoli after an impressive season on loan at Alaves in 2023-24. Former captain Nacho Fernandez also left the club to join Saudi outfit Al-Qadsiah this summer.
Los Blancos will play three high-profile friendlies against AC Milan, Barcelona and Chelsea in the USA before the UEFA Super Cup against Atalanta. They will hope to have most of their key players back in the squad, particularly the likes of Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao.
Real Madrid to name teenage star in pre-season tour squad - Reports
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is set to name a highly-rated academy star as part of their travelling contingent to the USA. The Italian tactician has opted to travel with 16-year-old centre-back Joan Martinez to the USA this summer, as per Fabrizio Romano.
Despite missing out on French talent Leny Yoro, Real Madrid have not panicked as they feel like they have players who can play in his stead. One of those players viewed internally is Spain U-17 star Martinez, who played for the Juvenil A side last season.
The highly-rated teenager is set for a first chance with the senior side, having been praised by Juvenil A coach Alvaro Arbeloa. The lanky centre-back will hope to make an impression on Ancelotti and his staff when the team departs for the USA.
