At just 19 years old, Youssef Enrique Lekhedim, popularly known as “Yusi,” is on the verge of making a name for himself at Real Madrid. With multiple first-team injuries opening up a window of opportunity, this young left-back is ready to make a lasting impression. Trained at Real since 2017, Yusi is another bright gem from the club’s youth system who may soon rise into the limelight.
Real Madrid is going through a moment of transition. Having stumbled in both the Champions League and Copa del Rey, the season’s end has forced Carlo Ancelotti to turn to younger, untested talent. Among the biggest beneficiaries is Yusi, who could soon make his professional debut for Los Blancos.
Born in Madrid in October 2005, Yusi holds dual nationality, with Moroccan heritage from his mother. Though he initially played for Spain’s youth teams up to the U18 level, he recently committed to representing Morocco at the international level. He’s already made an appearance for the Moroccan U20 team and earned a senior national team call-up in March 2024.
His journey through Spanish youth clubs speaks to his resilience and adaptability. From San Fernando to Rayo Vallecano, ED Moratalaz, and Getafe, he finally landed at Real Madrid in 2017. Since then, he’s steadily worked his way through the academy ranks, making his way to Castilla under the guidance of Raúl González.
This season, Yusi has been a revelation for Castilla. He’s logged more than 2,600 minutes, scoring once and assisting four times. His performances have drawn the admiration of coaches and fans alike. Raúl, impressed by his maturity and skill, even fast-tracked him past Real Madrid C, slotting him directly into the U19 squad.
What sets Yusi apart is his attacking flair. He embodies the qualities of a modern left-back—quick, creative, and capable of delivering deadly crosses. Within the club, comparisons are already being made between his left foot and that of Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos.
That comparison isn’t mere flattery. It’s a reflection of how seriously Real Madrid is taking his development. Florentino Pérez is believed to be monitoring Yusi closely, and the club has already secured him with a contract until 2028. According to Transfermarkt, his current market value is €400,000.
The urgency for reinforcements on the left flank couldn’t be greater. Injuries to Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, and David Alaba have left Fran García as the only fully fit left-back. In response, Ancelotti included multiple Castilla players in his squad for the match against Celta Vigo, Yusi among them.
This selection could mark a turning point for the young Moroccan. If given even a few minutes on the pitch, he’ll have the chance to prove he belongs at the highest level. Real Madrid fans are excited, and many view him as a potential long-term solution for a position that’s seen instability in recent years.
Despite the club’s interest in signing a more established left-back in the summer, Yusi’s presence changes the narrative. If he performs well in these final matches, it might prompt the board to rethink their transfer strategy.
Moreover, the upcoming arrival of a youthful coach like Xabi Alonso could work in Yusi’s favor. Known for nurturing young players, Alonso might be the perfect mentor to take Yusi’s game to the next level.
For Yusi, this is more than just a chance—it’s a defining moment. In a club as competitive and demanding as Real Madrid, windows of opportunity rarely stay open for long. But with talent, ambition, and the backing of Castilla and Morocco behind him, Yusi seems poised to take full advantage.
If the stars align and Ancelotti places his trust in him, the match against Celta Vigo could be remembered as the day Yusi’s legend began.
Don Boris
Devoted to the art of journalism and storytelling from a young age, I live and breathe all things Real Madrid. Inspired by the GOAT Cristiano Ronaldo, I pour my passion into every word, striving to honor the legacy of the greatest club in history