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Iker Casillas has reportedly withdrawn both sons from Real Madrid’s famous La Fabrica academy after becoming unhappy with their development opportunities.
The former Spain goalkeeper’s children, Martin and Lucas, had been progressing through the club’s youth system as aspiring goalkeepers.
However, according to AS, via Mundo Deportivo, as reported by Goal, the decision followed setbacks affecting Martin’s development within his age group.
The youngster reportedly lost his position in the team, with the reduced opportunities also costing him an international call-up.
Frustrated by the situation, Casillas decided to remove both children from the academy, bringing their involvement with the Spanish giants to an end.
The reported departure also comes against the background of Casillas’ complicated relationship with Real Madrid’s leadership.
Despite spending 25 years representing the club, the legendary goalkeeper has experienced disagreements with senior figures, including former manager Jose Mourinho.
Their previous conflict recently resurfaced through a Netflix documentary, while Casillas has also publicly criticised aspects of the first team’s performances.
His relationship with president Florentino Perez reportedly became more complicated after he supported Enrique Riquelme during the club’s summer presidential election.
That decision placed him behind an alternative candidate rather than the long-serving president, potentially deepening existing tensions.
Casillas’ decision represents a significant development given his legendary status at the Bernabeu and longstanding connection with the institution.
Martin and Lucas are now expected to continue their footballing education elsewhere, with finding an academy offering regular playing opportunities becoming their immediate priority.