Espi's impact fuels Real Madrid's striking depth under Mourinho

Real Madrid need reliable striking depth after Kylian Mbappé secured the starting role, and Carlos Espi has already added three decisive goals that have directly contributed nine points for the Merengues.

During the last summer transfer window Real Madrid made several intriguing signings, and several of those newcomers – Ibrahima Konate, Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva and Yan Diomande – have already become regular starters for Jose Mourinho.

Carlos Espi was another player brought in during the summer.

Although he has not yet secured a regular starting place, he has already shown how crucial he can be.

Espi opens up on his role

In an interview with El Larguero, the Spaniard expressed his amazement at his rapid rise, saying, “It’s incredible how much has happened to me. Nobody really expected it, including my entire family. Now it’s time to keep working. It’s a little difficult to take it all in because everything is happening so quickly. You have to be prepared because things never stop.”

Espi also revealed that he had other interesting options, but when Real Madrid called he could not turn them down, adding, “There were opportunities to move to the Premier League, but when Real Madrid came calling, I couldn’t turn them down. Everything happened very quickly; it was all wrapped up in two days.”

He affirmed his commitment to the Merengue side, stating, “I’ve come to Real Madrid to learn, improve and continue to develop. I’ll fight for Real Madrid and give everything I’ve got.”

Espi praised Mourinho’s management, noting, “I’ll try to make the most of whatever playing time the coach gives me. What stands out to me about Mourinho is how incredible he is, how approachable he is and how demanding he is. Having him pay so much attention to me is very good. For him to tell me what I’m doing well and what I’m doing wrong is very important to me.”

He added, “Mourinho tells me that I have to be patient. I have to make the most of every minute and every opportunity. That comes through working hard every day. Every minute he gives me is worth its weight in gold.”

Espi also lauded Kylian Mbappé, declaring him the best in the world and deserving of the Ballon d’Or, and said, “It’s a privilege to be able to train alongside him.”

Given Mbappé’s position ahead of him, securing a regular place will remain challenging, yet Espi’s determination suggests he will keep delivering vital goals for the Merengue side this season.