Mourinho's pre-season trial puts Real Madrid's top prospect under pressure

At the Santiago Bernabéu training ground, Jose Mourinho watches a young player weave through drills, signalling his first assessment of Real Madrid's academy star. 21‑year‑old Cesar Palacios, a regular for Castilla who debuted under Alvaro Arbeloa, will join the first‑team pre‑season squad in hopes of earning a senior place.

Palacios' return to Castilla is no longer on the agenda, and with Dani Ceballos departing and Nico Paz ruled out, the midfielder sees a genuine chance to break into the senior side. With only one year left on his contract, Palacios is determined to fight for his place before considering a move elsewhere.

The player recently switched agents, leaving Stellar Group for Best of You, a change that coincides with his crucial pre‑season period. His versatility has been praised, as coaches note his ability to operate as a deeper No. 8, a centre‑forward or on the wings.

Interest from clubs across Europe’s five major leagues is growing, with Athletic Club monitoring him for months and several Premier League sides submitting proposals. Fulham, where former Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa is beginning a new project, and Italian side Como have also been linked as possible destinations.

Despite the attention, sources close to Palacios say he remains focused on impressing Mourinho before entertaining any transfer. Under Arbeloa, he earned five league appearances, one Copa del Rey match and one UEFA Champions League outing.

Within Real Madrid’s Valdebebas academy, coaches have highlighted his technical quality, quoting, “The way he turns with the ball reminds us of Modric.” This comparison underscores the high expectations placed on the 21‑year‑old.

Should he leave, Real Madrid intend to structure any deal to retain long‑term control, a strategy previously used for Victor Munoz and Nico Paz. For now, Palacios’ defining summer hinges on his performance in Mourinho’s pre‑season camp.