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2015/16 end of season review!
Hello and welcome! The Real Madrid Castilla 'class of 2016' will soon become a 'what if?'. What if they won the league title? What if they got promoted into Liga Adelante? What if they didn't slip up in this game, or at this moment? All valid questions, but I would prefer it if the 15/16 squad were remembered for their sheer quality of play. At times they displayed breathtaking football! In this end of season review, I will go through the whole squad, including both of the managers they have had this season, talk a little bit about them, and end it with a season rating out of 10. I hope you guys enjoy, and remember; if you agree or disagree on any point, feel free to have your say on twitter! Thanks a lot, guys!
The Managers!
Zinedine Zidane
It seems fitting that we start with the man who began his great season with Castilla. Probably the biggest success story to come out of Castilla this year. However, not everything ran smoothly for 'Zizou' at Castilla. He doesn't particularly appreciate the 'CAM' position, with first team players Isco and James being benched regularly. At Castilla, Martin Ødegaard was the victim of this philosophy. He left Castilla to take the vacant first team position, when we were 2nd place and on a poor run of results. Development is not Zidane's strongest attribute, and it's safe to say, what did not work at Castilla, has worked an absoloute treat with the first team. Hopefully his links with Castilla will now give plenty of opportunities to the hopeful youngsters at Madrid. And with, Mariano and Mayoral already penning new deals, and Ødegaard, Tejero and Craninx being involved with the seniors already, I can see that happening.
Castilla Rating: 6/10.
Luis Miguel Ramis
Branded 'the saviour'. As soon as he arrived results picked up. He came from the u19s academy side, so unlike Zidane, development was one of Ramis' strong points. The players form improved, as it wasn't long before we were back in the title race. Despite one period of concern, Castilla pulled through, and under Ramis took the season until the very last second in a breathtaking finale. They finished top. A perfect finish to a near perfect regular season campaign for Ramis and his men. And then came the playoffs. I don't know whether it was lack of squad depth, or something he saw in training, but the tactical side of the playoff's was... To put it in one word, horrendous. He was playing players out of position, and that visibly damaged the way Castilla played. We ended up not winning a single game, and being stuck in the 3rd Division again next season. A sour ending to an otherwise great season. It will be interesting to see if Ramis is still around next season...
Castilla Rating: 7/10.
The Players!
Carlos Abad
This season's undisputed number 1. Had a fantastic season, and was so consistent throughout. Played out from the back confidently when he needed too and made some world class saves to keep us in the title race until the end. A red card in the final game made for an ugly end to the season for him but overall a great campaign. He had the most cleansheets in the side. Doubt he will return to Madrid after his loan spell from Tenerife expires.
Castilla Rating: 8/10.
Alfonso Herrero
One start, one 'Man of The Match' award. It would have been one game, until Abad got sent off in the last game, and Herrero had to come on in his place. He played reasonably well in that game too! This rating is based on the 2 appearances I saw, which were very positive. Unlikely to stay at Castilla this summer.
Castilla Rating: 8/10.
Álex Craninx
One appearance this season. Nothing memorable to come out of it either. Although, he has been involved with the first team at times this season, being in the squad for a few games. I think he'll have a good shot at the number 1 spot next season. No rating here.
Castilla Rating: -/10.
Sergio Reguilón
Went out on loan to fellow promotion chasers Logroñés for the first half of the season, and came back a better player. Added strength to our back four. Was consistently strong, and even played well filling in at centre back when required! Kept the impressive Dani out of the squad altogether. Not sure whether he will stay or go this summer.
Castilla Rating: 8/10.
Fran Rodríguez
Was injured for the majority of the season, but when he came back he was outstanding. Scored some stunning goals, linked up the play well and was a big asset both offensively and defensively. I think if he was fully fit for the whole year, he would have been in contention for player of the season - he was that good! Fran was left out of the final playoff games, which proved to be costly. Hopefully he's still here next season, but he could play higher easily.
Castilla Rating: 9/10.
Dani Fernández
With Fran injured, and Reguilón out on loan, Dani was the only right back for the majority of the season - and did a great job. He was positive, and added something for the team all over the pitch. I think it was a bit harsh to take him out of the team when the others returned. Dani was sent back to the under-19s, and didn't feature for Castilla again. He'll be back with us next season. Consistent performer.
Castilla Rating: 8/10.
José León
Arguably our best centre half when fit. We really struggled after his nasty injury. He scored some vital goals and kept out even more. Although he is one of the older players in the squad, I think he may stay for one more year next season. Trained with the first team on occasion.
Castilla Rating: 8/10.
Philipp Lienhart
One of the team's big international prospects. An easy starter here; he had a brilliant season before picking up an injury. Philipp managed to return just in time for the playoffs, and was our best centre back - even if a bit rusty. Made his first team debut this year, having trained with them on numerous occasions. He was also called up by the Austria under-19's national team, for some of their vital matches. Overall, a successful year for him. Still a teenager so could stay for next season, but he could easily play higher!
Castilla Rating: 8/10.
Héctor
Found himself playing more games than expected after a series of defensive injuries elsewhere. Overall played pretty well. Gained heavy criticism in the playoffs for some notable mistakes, and was dropped in result. Unlikely to stay at Castilla.
Castilla Rating: 6/10.
Jaime Sánchez
No appearances this season due to injury, which is a shame, as he is a talented player. I can confidently say that Jaime is the Castilla player I know the least about. Not likely to be here next season. No rating.
Castilla Rating: -/10.
Alex Salto
When defensive injuries were on the rise, Salto was brought in to ease everyone's nerves. An under-19's player, Salto was pushed into the deep end at a criticle point in Castilla's season. His good performances helped the whites to finish top of the table! Salto was wrongly sent off in the playoffs which was a big factor in the defeat. He'll definitely be promoted to Castilla next year, and I'm excited to see how he develops!
Castilla Rating: 7/10.
Álvaro Tejero
Over the whole season, Tejero was probably the best fullback. Always an option in attack, and improved a lot defensively, too. As the only available left back; he played in all but one of the fixtures this season, and was still very consistent. Another one to make his Real Madrid debut this year. I hope he stays for next season, and that he see's more success with the club.
Castilla Rating: 9/10.
Abner
Played in one game this year before being ruled out for the rest of the season with injury. Has been around the first team squad during recovery. Not sure where he will be next season. Good left back when fit though. No rating.
Castilla Rating: -/10.
Marcos Llorente
The ever present rock in the side. What a season this man has had. He is strong, quick, skillful, and possesses the passing range of Xabi Alonso and Andrea Pirlo combined. Big future ahead. He came close to the 'player of the season' award, and was definitely in the top 3. Trained with the first team regularly, and managed to make his debut with them as well. They are interested for a reason. He preformed so consistently high all season, and barely let that standard drop. Marcos earned the second most 'man of the match awards, and finished second for assists. Vital in defence, positioning himself just in-front of the back 4, but also orchestrated so many attacks. Chipped in with some lovely goals, too! Simply cannot be with Castilla next season sadly, as he is destined for top level, either with our first team, or out on loan to a big club. His future starts now!
Castilla Rating: 9.5/10.
Aleix Febas
This was the season that Febas burst onto the scene! My personal favourite Castilla player (no bias, I promise!) had a slow start to the season, but his form really picked up around the midway point. Double scoring games in quick succession helped him to finish as our third top scorer from midfield. That important playoff goal kept our title hopes alive. Such a skillful player, his incredible balance has fooled opponents again and again this season. Has been a pure joy to watch. The midfield trio of Llorente-Febas-Ødegaard will live long in my memory as one of the greatest Castilla midfields of all time. Unstoppable. I have followed Febas since his early academy days, and I'm very happy that he is doing so well. Hopefully he stays at Castilla for one more year, but he is another player who could so effortlessly play much higher, and for sure will in the near future.
Castilla Rating: 9/10.
A promising player, it was a big shame to find out that Torró was going to be out for most of the season, with a horrible injury. He eventually returned to make 10 appearances. He played quite well in those games, and didn't make too many mistakes. Did pick up a red card in one game though, for a silly challenge. Won't be here next season.
Castilla Rating: 6/10.
Javi played a lot of games this season, and ended up captaining the side a lot in Enzo's absence, too! Provided the world class cross for Mariano in the vital 1-0 away win over Barakaldo. Came close to being in both the top 3 scorers, and assisters charts. Does not seem like he will be here next season.
Castilla Rating: 7/10.
The youngest player in the squad, the most notorious player in the squad. You name it, he probably is it. Castilla's joint top assister, Martin earned the most 'man of the match' awards this year, by more than double. Struggled slightly under Zidane but still performed. Blossomed under Ramis. When playing CAM, he is unstoppable at this level. Trained with the first team every week, and made a few squads. Called up by Norway's senior team also. He has had a sensational season. Martin, Mariano and Marcos made up the player of the season nominations. Hounded by the media for some unknown reason, but he has overcome the media. Those who have watched him this season have been blown away. Notably struggled when placed out on the wing, and this poor tactic cost us promotion. He isn't as versatile as people think. His season start and performances out-wide cost him a 10/10 from me, but he was probably the most entertaining player to watch this year. Amazing future ahead of him, already a huge name in world football. It was a pleasure being able to follow his progress weekly. He has to play top league next year, either with the first team or out on loan. Wherever he ends up next season, I do hope they drop this 'winger' nonsense. Top class attacking midfielder.
Castilla Rating: 9.5/10.
Castilla's best winger. Didn't play as many games as he should have. Still managed to finish the season as the team's joint top assister. Coasted past players. Usually used as an impact sub, and almost always made an impact. Álvaro was one of the best attacking players in the playoffs. Skillful, strong on the ball and fast; he was brilliant to watch as times this season. Probably will not be with Castilla next season, and could push to play in the top league! Will be interesting to see where he goes.
Castilla Rating: 8.5/10.
Our 4th top scorer. Ended up playing quite a few games, but also turned out for the under-19's on occasion. Tricky winger who can make a difference in games. Didn't make his mark this season, but time is on his side. He'll probably start as right winger next season. I Tip him to have a big year.
Castilla Rating: 7/10.
Enzo Zidane
The captain. Huge boots to fill in the family. Started the season very well, and quickly established himself as one of the team's best players. Castilla's joint top assister, Enzo flourished under his fathers guidance. However, he barely started with Ramis in charge. No one is quite sure why, but obviously something had happened. Looked rusty whenever he played after that. Still has a big future ahead of him, but not at Castilla. If he finds some consistency in his game he'll be a top player. Need's to be loaned out, preferably at a higher level. We're likely to see his brother at Castilla next season.
Castilla Rating: 7.5/10.
José Lazo
It's been a strong first season for Lazo. Still involved with the Juvenil A side. He is seriously fast, with a cross and finish to match. Good feet too. Impressed whenever he played. Lazo has great potential, and is likely to be one of the first names on the team-sheet next season.
Castilla Rating: 7.5/10.
Mariano Díaz
Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you: The Real Madrid Castilla 2015/16 'Player of the Season'. The teams top scorer, the entire league's top scorer. A stunning year from the Dominican international. He dropped off slightly towards the end of the campaign. Mariano combinds great strength, with pace and skill! His insane finishing is his greatest attribute, though! His dead balls aren't too bad, either. Mariano has scored the most goals in a single season that I can remember, ending the year with 27. He has been with Castilla a long time, and has shot up in form this season. Who knows how good he can be. He's been training with the first team from time to time, and has signed a pre-contract with Real Madrid. So for now, he is a first team player! From here he may go out on loan. It'll be interesting to see how he does in La Liga...
Castilla Rating: 10/10.
Borja Mayoral
Mayoral played everywhere for Real Madrid this season. For the academy, Castilla, and the senior team. he trained with the first team weekly. Borja was Castilla's second top scorer this season, and was the Castilla player involved with the first team the most. He has amazing potential, and can go all the way to the very top. As a player, he has everything, the perfect striker. Pace, skill, strength, and a brilliant finish. Was called up by Spanish under-19 national team on multiple occasions. A great player to watch. Unfortunately, he was another victim of the terrible tactics used towards the end of the season, being pushed out on the wing. He did try to make the most of it, and put on some decent displays regardless. The fans at Madrid love him, and he can go on to do great things with the club. Too good for the 3rd division now. Will spend next season with the first team or on loan at a top league.
Castilla Rating: 9.5/10.
Jordan Gaspar
Jordan only joined half way through this season from Logroñés. He went on to play in a handful of games. I liked what I saw in those games. Very much a signing for next season. Skillful looking talent. I had the pleasure of sitting down and interviewing him recently, and as a player if he is anything like he is as a person, then we are in for a treat. He could potentially start next season, but he'll have the big boots of Mariano to fill.
Castilla Rating: 6.5/10.
Conclusion!
The 2015/16 season may have been a failure, but there is no doubt that this Castilla side was one of the better! The chemistry between players was the best I have seen here, and some of the play was just exquisite. Every one of them should be looking to play at top level in the future. I wish those that will be leaving the team the best of luck, and I will be excited to follow their progress! As for Castilla, there will be a lot of changes this summer, so I will try to keep you all updated as they happen! Thank you all for following me this season, I could not have done it without you! REMEMBER: if you want to have a say, tweet me @CastillStats. Thanks again and I hope that next season, we can go one further!
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