What Theo Hernandez could mean for the coming years at Real Madrid.
Real Madrid’s historic league and European double this past season displayed the immense power at the disposal of manager Zinedine Zidane, as a line-up full of talent kept Los Blancos in control for most of the campaign. But where future success will come from within the squad is still building, with the left-back position coming into strong focus this summer.
Atletico Madrid defender Theo Hernandez impressed many in 2016-17 during his loan to Deportivo Alaves, and is rumoured to be set for a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.
The 19-year-old was a key element to a strong season for El Glorioso, earning a top-half finish in La Liga and reaching the final of the Copa del Rey. Signing with Real Madrid in this summer’s transfer window could see his development and overall game reach a new level.
The timing may be perfect as well, as Marcelo could be the right mentor to prepare Hernandez for his future role.
The right direction
Marcelo has been a constant at full-back for Madrid during the past decade. But at 29 and still holding a desire to eventually return to his native Brazil, he may not be in Zidane’s line-up for many more years.
Marcelo is a defender who demands attention from the opposition, and that attention is necessary at both ends of the pitch.
Real Madrid’s attack is world-class, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale able to overwhelm almost any other football club. But Marcelo’s fantastic work at the back only enhances this attribute.
The Brazilian’s crosses can be difficult to stop, and his pace allows for space to be created in the final third. In order for the position of left-back to continue as a strength for the squad, bringing in Theo Hernandez now could be a brilliant decision.
Similar qualities
Hernandez showcased the potential to duplicate Marcelo’s effects while on loan at Alaves this season, as strong defensive work was combined with a flair in the attack. The youngster possesses great size, vision and passing accuracy.
The talented left-back recorded three assists and scored one goal in league play this past season, with another goal coming during Alaves’ Copa del Rey run. With the guidance of a player like Marcelo during his first year or two at the Bernabeu, Hernandez can continue his development and be prepared to make a significant impact when his time as a starter arrives.
Real Madrid are at the top of the footballing world at the moment, and will want to ensure that they are doing all that is possible to remain there for the future. With this objective in mind, the addition of Theo Hernandez this summer would be a tremendous start.