Cesc’s Como tracking two Real Madrid gems
Como are interested in the two Real Madrid youth players that Arbeloa has called up for the Girona match.
Cesc Fàbregas, manager of Como 1907, continues to look to Real Madrid CF’s youth academy to strengthen his squad for next season. That is the case with two academy players who have also featured for Real Madrid Castilla: Fortea and Yáñez, both 19. Yáñez has even made his debut with the first team, playing a few minutes against Girona FC last season and again against Elche CF this season, where he also provided an assist. Both are in the squad for Friday’s match against Girona.
Yáñez is a highly attacking winger who has consistently delivered strong performances for Castilla and Spain’s Under-19 national team, with whom he impressed during the last international break. At the Bernabéu, he is remembered for his assist to Dean Huijsen against Elche. That was his second appearance for the first team, after making his debut under Carlo Ancelotti last season. Even then, his football beyond Valdebebas was already attracting attention, but his profile has since grown significantly.
He is fast, skilful and has a keen eye for goal. A standout talent who leaves no one indifferent, largely because of the intensity he brings to every performance. He constantly demands the ball. At Valdebebas, his “persistence” is particularly valued: his ability to remain a relentless attacking threat. Taking on defenders again and again, regardless of how the previous action ended. These qualities, combined with his mentality, have drawn interest from multiple clubs, and he now has a wide range of options for next season.
Fortea, a left-footed right-back, also has extensive experience in Spain’s youth categories. Having come through Atlético Madrid’s academy, his move to Real Madrid effectively ended the informal agreement between the two clubs not to sign players from each other’s youth systems. He is Yáñez’s main partner on the flank and is seen as a potential long-term successor to Dani Carvajal.
His season began amid significant changes, shaped by Álvaro Arbeloa’s appointment as Castilla coach and the club’s strong faith in him, despite interest from major European sides offering immediate first-team opportunities. After losing momentum due to his participation in the Under-20 World Cup and a subsequent injury, Fortea has rediscovered his form. With that has come a call-up to the first team and growing interest from Como.
Great coaches lift the mood of the whole club.
— Advanced Football Academy (@AdvFtbAcad) March 28, 2026
Just listen to how highly Como staff rate Cesc Fabregaspic.twitter.com/sxPbD8giTc
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