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Real Madrid’s Summer Sale: Chema Andrés Dreams of Bernabéu Return Amid Rodri Comparisons
Sep
In a summer transfer window that saw several young talents depart the Spanish capital, Chema Andrés’ move to VfB Stuttgart for a modest €3 million has quickly turned heads. The 20-year-old midfielder, often likened to Manchester City’s midfield maestro Rodri, has wasted no time in making an impact in the Bundesliga, all while keeping a keen eye on a potential return to Real Madrid.
A New Chapter in Stuttgart
Chema Andrés, who joined Real Madrid from Levante at the tender age of 13, spent last season making 32 appearances for Real Madrid Castilla. His potential was recognized with a few first-team call-ups, including two substitute appearances in La Liga and one in the Copa del Rey.
However, the path to regular senior minutes at the Santiago Bernabéu is notoriously challenging. Opting for a clearer development pathway, Chema made the strategic decision to join VfB Stuttgart in July for €3 million ($3.5 million). This move, while seemingly a step away from his boyhood club, is proving to be a shrewd one for the young Spaniard.
Instant Impact and a Surprising Goal
His Bundesliga debut came as an unused substitute in Stuttgart’s defeat to Union Berlin. But it was in his second appearance, coming off the bench against Borussia Mönchengladbach, that Chema truly announced his arrival. In a moment of delightful irony for a player known more for his defensive prowess than his goal-scoring ability – a trait he shares with his esteemed comparison, Rodri – Chema netted the only goal in a crucial 1-0 victory.
This marked his first goal since finding the back of the net for Real Madrid C during the 2023–24 season, highlighting his immediate impact in Germany.
The Dream of a Bernabéu Return
Despite his promising start in Germany, Chema’s heart remains firmly with Real Madrid. Speaking to Disidencia Deportiva, he openly discussed his long-term aspirations: “I think it’s a bit too soon to talk about it. But obviously playing for Real Madrid is any player’s dream. I would like to return one day, but I’m taking it step by step.”
This sentiment is not lost on Real Madrid, a club renowned for its strategic approach to player development and transfers. It is widely understood that Madrid negotiated a buyback clause in the deal that sent Chema to Stuttgart – a common practice when young talents are moved on for more playing time.
German reports suggest this buyback clause stands at a mere €13.5 million, a figure well within Real Madrid’s financial reach should Chema continue his impressive trajectory. Furthermore, the agreement reportedly includes a 50% sell-on clause, ensuring Madrid benefits from any future profit Stuttgart might make on the player.
A Proven Strategy: The Buyback Clause
Real Madrid has a rich history of successfully utilizing buyback clauses to bring back former players who have flourished elsewhere. The most famous example is Dani Carvajal, who returned from Bayer Leverkusen in 2013 to become a Bernabéu legend, solidifying his place as one of the best right-backs of his generation.
Another notable instance was Álvaro Morata, who was re-signed from Juventus in 2016 and subsequently sold a year later for a significant profit, demonstrating the financial and sporting acumen of the club’s transfer strategy.
The next player who could potentially see such a clause triggered is Argentine playmaker Nico Paz, currently at Como, indicating Madrid’s ongoing commitment to nurturing and, if necessary, reacquiring talent. This strategic approach highlights the club’s long-term vision and its ability to manage player assets effectively.
The Rodri Comparison: High Praise for Chema
The comparison to Manchester City’s Rodri is high praise indeed for Chema Andrés. Rodri is widely regarded as one of the finest defensive midfielders in world football, known for his exceptional positional awareness, astute passing, and crucial interventions. For Chema to be mentioned in the same breath speaks volumes about his potential and the qualities he possesses.
While Chema is still in the early stages of his career, his early performances in Germany suggest he has the attributes to develop into a top-tier midfielder. His desire to return to Real Madrid, coupled with the club’s shrewd buyback clause, sets the stage for a compelling narrative in the coming seasons.
Conclusion
Chema Andrés’ journey is a testament to the dynamic nature of modern football transfers. His move to VfB Stuttgart provides him with the crucial senior experience he needs, while Real Madrid retains a strong interest in his future. With a dream of returning to the Bernabéu and an impressive start to his Bundesliga career, Chema Andrés is certainly a player to watch as he strives to emulate the success of those who have come before him.
