Joselu secures future at Real Madrid with stellar performance

Joselu, at 33 years old, has emerged as a strategic asset for Real Madrid, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess by netting 11 times this season.

He stands as the team’s third-highest scorer, trailing behind Bellingham (17) and Rodrygo (12) but surpassing significant players like Vinicius (9, including three in the latest Clásico).

Despite appearing in almost every game this season (missing just one), Joselu ranks 14th in minutes played (1,261). Impressively, he averages a goal every 114 minutes, the most efficient among the Madrid squad.

Bellingham, who played a thousand more minutes than Joselu, scores every 131 minutes, while Rodrygo scores every 186 minutes, and Vinicius every 149 minutes.

Beyond the statistics, Ancelotti’s coaching staff appreciates Joselu’s attitude as the central forward.

In his presentation back in June 2023, Joselu acknowledged his distinct role: “We all know Benzema’s level; I’m here to do a different type of job. I’m a more physical player, and I know what I can contribute.”

Following Benzema’s departure, Joselu became the sole traditional striker, even though he hasn’t yet secured a spot in the starting lineup.

Joselu’s arrival at Madrid resulted from exploiting a clause allowing him to leave Espanyol freely in case of relegation.

Negotiations included a payment of half a million to Espanyol for the loan and a predetermined fee of 1.5 million if Real Madrid opted to acquire him permanently.

Despite the impending arrival of Endrick next summer, Joselu presents Real Madrid with a valuable addition—a classic goal-scoring striker complementing the speed of players like Vinicius, Rodrygo, and Brahim.

Source: AS