Real Madrid head into their next league match against Alavés with an unexpected new name in the squad.

Javi Navarro, affectionately known as the “hero of Lausanne,” has received his first official call-up to the senior team under Carlo Ancelotti.

The academy graduate’s inclusion comes after the late withdrawal of Fran González. The young Madrid-born goalkeeper has been left out of the squad after suffering a heavy knock that leaves him short of full fitness for tonight’s match.

With this setback in goal, the Madrid squad will have Andriy Lunin, Mestre, and Javi Navarro as the three available goalkeepers. Lunin is expected to start, while the two academy keepers wait for their chance on the Santiago Bernabéu bench.

Navarro earned the respect of the Madrid faithful after his heroic performance in the Youth League, which has now brought him this reward in professional football. His agility and reflexes are his strongest qualities as he provides backup against the side from Vitoria.

The team is looking to secure three vital points to stay in the fight for top spot, while maintaining the defensive solidity that has become their hallmark. The fans will be watching closely for Navarro’s possible debut if the circumstances of the match call for it.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.