As one of the most in-demand players in world football, France and Rennes midfielder Eduardo Camavinga had suitors from across the globe. The Frenchman was seen as one of the most exciting midfielders in the world, offering a wonderful blend of creative craft with physical gifts. Having made his debut at just 16, the player was soon a France regular. However, a drop off in form in the 2020-21 season was expected, as both player and his former club suffered.

With a year to go on his contract, then, Real Madrid moved to snap up a player who was valued at around €100m last summer. His contract situation ensured the fee for the 18-year-old was more favourable, and the club landed a primary target that was watched closely ever since Zinedine Zidane first returned.

Though the Frenchman has now moved on and Carlo Ancelotti warms the Real Madrid bench once again, it was the passion for the player that ‘Zizou’ showed that made him such a desired target.

The player has spoken about what he believes is a move to his ‘dream club’, whilst also making clear that he has the mental fortitude to succeed. Many young talents have arrived at the unforgiving colosseum of the Santiago Bernabeu only to wilt under the expectation. With a life of struggle and sacrifice until professionalism kicked in, though, Camavinga is clear that he is ready to grasp the opportunity.

What did Eduardo Camavinga say about joining Real Madrid?

While some Madrid fans would have hoped for another Frenchman to be introduced to the press in the form of Kylian Mbappe, Camavinga offers a hugely exciting long-term option. A player who could play with or in place of Luka Modric, he offers a long-term solution to the eventual exit of the Croatian legend.

Speaking about the desire to do well in a Madrid shirt, though, Camavinga was clear about why he will be a success. He declared his own confidence, adding: “I have had to escape the war and this has helped me and made me stronger. My family has helped me a lot, and when I play, I play for them.”

Breaking into the Rennes team in 2019, the youngster soon wowed fans and viewers alike with his confident and mature displays. Playing in arguably the most challenging position for a young player to learn, Camavinga was soon running games and making consistently excellent plays from the middle of the pitch.

A truly stellar talent, it would be fair to say that Camavinga has the future at his feet. The player finally has left Rennes after an 18-month saga, with the likes of Manchester United also keen to land the player. With his heart set on Madrid, though, it looks like the deal will be one that benefits both player and club for many years to come.

Elite talent is often hard to land – with Real Madrid, though, they always have a chance to landing the best young players. In Camavinga, they might have landed a new midfielder for a generation.