Eduardo Camavinga’s future at Real Madrid appeared uncertain not long ago, but the French midfielder has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries of Jose Mourinho’s arrival.
Despite recent questions over his form and growing competition in the Real Madrid midfield, Camavinga has become a regular feature in Mourinho’s plans during pre-season.
Now, according to journalist Abraham Romero, as relayed by Defensa Central, Real Madrid are convinced that Camavinga possesses a level of potential that many of their alternative midfield targets cannot match.
The club believe that, under the right guidance of new manager Jose Mourinho, the Frenchman can develop into a player valued at between €100 million and €120 million.
That belief appears to have played a role in Real Madrid’s decision-making, particularly after the club’s pursuit of Rodri did not result in a signing.
Real Madrid see a higher ceiling in Camavinga
Camavinga’s standing at the club has remained stronger internally than his recent performances may suggest.
The 23-year-old has endured a difficult period, with his form over the last year and a half raising doubts about whether he could become a long-term leader in the Real Madrid midfield.
Real Madrid have full faith in Camavinga’s potential. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
However, Romero explained that there are influential figures at Valdebebas who continue to trust the player’s ability and ceiling.
“Camavinga is one of the reasons, until the World Cup final, why there wasn’t complete unanimity regarding Rodri at Valdebebas.
“He’s coming off two bad years, especially the last one, but for many members of the board, he’s shown he has the quality, having played in two Champions League finals and major knockout rounds.
“His last year and a half has indeed been poor, but within Valdebebas, they believe he has a ceiling that other players don’t have, and perhaps superior to the other market options available, apart from Rodri, who is a special case,” the journalist said.
Furthermore, according to Romero, Rodri’s arrival could have dramatically changed Camavinga’s situation.
“If Rodri had arrived, Camavinga would have either left or had a secondary role.
“Without Rodri, the feeling is that Camavinga has a high ceiling, especially if he focuses and Mourinho gets the best out of him,” he added.
Mourinho has made Camavinga a key part of pre-season
Camavinga’s importance under Mourinho has been visible throughout Real Madrid’s preparations.
Camavinga has played a lot under Jose Mourinho. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
The Frenchman is the only outfield player to have featured in every pre-season match so far, playing a total of 405 minutes across games against Alcorcon, Leganes, Ferencvaros and Deportivo La Coruna.
That record is particularly notable given the competition for places in the Real Madrid midfield.
Romero believes the club’s faith in Camavinga was strengthened by the decision not to bring in another major midfield signing.
“The club believes he can reach the level of those players who command €100-120 million in the Premier League. Camavinga has been important to Real Madrid since he was 19, and they have confidence in him.
“If another important player had arrived, he might have left. But instead of spending €100 million with a new coach, they opted for Camavinga.
“In the end, he’s just another rotation player, well-liked and valued at the club,” concluded Romero
Mourinho’s faith could now allow Camavinga to rebuild his standing and establish himself as one of the key players in the squad.