Real Madrid debutant reflects on special memory after Alaves win – ‘I’m going to frame my jersey’
Real Madrid’s victory over Alaves may have been defined by necessity, but one of the most compelling storylines came from an unexpected source.
In a moment where options were scarce and pressure was high, Xabi Alonso turned to the club’s academy, and Victor Valdepenas responded with maturity beyond his years.
The 2-1 win arrived under unusual circumstances. Alonso’s hand had been forced after the previous league clash against Celta Vigo left the squad severely depleted at left-back.
Alvaro Carreras and Fran Garcia were both sent off in that encounter, leaving the Real Madrid coach with no senior alternatives for the Alaves fixture. With no room for improvisation, the solution came from Castilla.
A moment he will never forget
Valdepenas was handed his first-team debut and, notably, was trusted from the start.
The young defender slotted into the left-back role and stayed on the pitch for 78 demanding minutes, holding his own in a match that required composure as much as discipline.
After the final whistle, the emotional weight of the moment became clear in his words to Real Madrid TV.
Speaking about what the debut meant to him, Valdepenas said, “It’s a dream, the dream of any child.
“I’ve been dreaming of it since I started playing football, and today I was able to fulfil it. What I feel is indescribable, and I’m absolutely thrilled, to be honest.”
El debut soñado de Víctor Valdepeñas. ?
— LALIGA (@LaLiga) December 14, 2025
InsideLALIGA LALIGAEXPERIENCE pic.twitter.com/emsydRlQU7
The youngster then reflected on the early nerves that naturally accompanied such a milestone, while also highlighting the support he received from those around him.
“At first I was nervous, I won’t lie, but my teammates calmed me down and I thank them and the captains.
“It’s not every day you make your debut with Real Madrid, and even more so as a starter, but I’ve been able to handle it well thanks to everyone.”
A memento from the match
Beyond the performance itself, Valdepenas was already thinking about preserving the memory.
When asked about his debut shirt, he revealed its special place in his life, saying,
“This jersey is going in my room. I’m going to frame it there so I can see it every day and remember today.”
Finally, the defender turned his attention to those following the same path he once walked, offering words of encouragement to academy players still waiting for their chance.
Drawing from his own journey, he concluded, “I’ve been here since I was little and we’ve put in a lot of work. We have to be consistent and believe in this.”
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