Name: Pablo Sarabia
Club: Getafe
Nationality: Spanish
Position: Midfielder
Who is he?
One of many Real Madrid academy products who never got the chance to truly make his mark at his parent club, Pablo Sarabia started out in the Madrid cantera aged 12 in 2004.
Progressing through the ranks, the 21-year-old made his Real Madrid B debut in 2009, making 49 appearances and scoring 15 over the next two seasons.
However he only made one appearance for the Real Madrid senior team, playing the last 20 minutes of a Champions League group game at the end of 2010.
The following summer, Sarabia signed a five-year contract with Real’s city rivals Getafe, following a path often tread by ex-Real Madrid youth graduates like Dani Parejo, Esteban Granero and the retired Ruben de la Red.
More of an impact substitute in 2011/12 and last season, he has played a more regular role this season, playing a full 90 minutes five times prior to the 7 – 0 defeat to Atletico Madrid last weekend which he spent on the bench.
Achievements
At international level, Sarabia has won major honours with Spain including the 2011 European U19 Championship and this year’s U21 Championship.
As Spain captain, he was one of the main stars at the U19 tournament where he created four goals and scored two of his own (including one against Ireland).
However he only made two appearances in the latter tournament, spending the final against Italy on the bench. But he did play a full 90 minutes in the final group game against the Netherlands where he set up two goals in a 3 – 0 win.
Attributes
An attacking midfielder who can also play in wider positions, the left-footer is a creative presence. This season he has already assisted four goals in 13 La Liga games.
Often playing behind the striker or on the right wing this term, he is the joint-second highest chance creator at Getafe this season.
He has also had the highest number of successful dribbles at Getafe this season.
Potential
When Sarabia departed for Getafe, Real Madrid inserted a buy-back clause into the deal. But this option could only be exercised until 2013 which suggests that the 21-year-old will not be following the path of Dani Carvajal who was bought back after shining at Bayer Leverkusen.
But he is one of many young Spanish players who is expected to have a very bright future, although a move to an elite club is still some time away.
