Best Academy Products: 10 greatest graduates of all time from Real Madrid

Mata never played for Real Madrid’s first team

#9 Esteban Cambiasso

Cambiasso had two separate spells with Real Madrid

Esteban Cambiasso joined Real Madrid’s academy from Argentine outfit Argentinos Junior in 1996 before leaving the club two years later to return to Argentina to play for Independiente and later for River Plate.

In 2002, four years after Cambiasso left Real Madrid, he returned to the Spanish capital as one of the very few Real Madrid academy players who were brought back to the club after impressing elsewhere. However in his two seasons with the senior team he played a backup role and left for Internazionale.

It was at Internazionale where Cambiasso became the renowned star he is today. He played regularly as a defensive midfielder for the Italian club and after his debut season in the Italy he was named as the outstanding player for the 2004/05 season.

During his 10 years with Inter Cambiasso was a regular in the side and played a pivotal role in helping Inter win the treble back in 2010.

Cambiasso quickly became well known for his tactical awareness, his stamina, his technique, his passing range and vision. These helped him to bring the ball out from his own half and play it forward to try and create chances for his teammates. He also possesses a great tackling ability which allowed him to thrive as a defensive midfielder.

The Argentine is a very talented player, but it was his determination and hardwork that made him extremely successful. In addition to all the aforementioned attributes, Cambiasso has a sweet left foot and has chipped in with a decent number of goals for a defensive midfielder. He scored five for Leicester City last season and played an important role in helping the Foxes escape relegation.

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