Carlos Espí had an evening that could count in his young career. This Thursday evening, with Spain U21 against San Marino, the Real Madrid striker scored a resounding quadruple in the victory for La Roja (13-0). Starting for the first time with the Espoirs, Espí also delivered two assists. Note also that the first Spanish goal, scored in the 34th minute, was initially attributed to him before being considered as an own goal by Gabriele Montali. Whatever. Espí then took matters into his own hands, finding the net four times to complete a particularly remarkable performance. An XXL performance, certainly achieved against a largely inferior opponent, but which confirms the effectiveness of the young Madrilenian.
And for good reason. This demonstration comes at a particularly interesting time for Espí. Arriving at Real Madrid with the status of a young center forward expected to progress in the shadow of the stars, he finally took advantage of this international break to make a name for himself. For its part, the Madrid club itself highlighted its achievement, while the competition is particularly strong around Vinicius, Güler, Bellingham, Endrick and especially Kylian Mbappé. Author of 26 short minutes of play in five appearances in all competitions, Espí therefore offered himself new exposure a few days before the resumption of the championship.
The suitable replacement for Mbappé?
Because the Madrid context could open a window for him. Affected in the left knee with the France team, Mbappé is currently recovering – between Paris and Madrid – from a hyperextension of the posterior capsule of the left knee, according to the official diagnosis communicated by Real Madrid. If the Merengues have not announced a precise duration of unavailability, the captain of the Blues has left the Blues gathering and remains uncertain for the reception of Villarreal, scheduled for October 10. In the event of a package, several options would then be possible for José Mourinho.
Therefore, if the repositioning of Bellingham at the forefront seems to be the preferred option, a formula with Güler behind the striker is also mentioned and Carlos Espí could then benefit from it. So yes, it is obviously premature to consider the kid from Tavernes de la Valldigna as a potential starter in the ranks of Casa Blanca. But his recital with Spain U21 comes, in any case, at the best time. With four goals and two assists in one evening, at a time when Mbappé’s presence is uncertain, Carlos Espí – called up to the A after the withdrawal of Ferran Torres – has, in fact, reminded the current 4th in Liga that he has a precious weapon to compensate for a possible prolonged absence of Kylian Mbappé.
