Real Madrid Loans Japanese Wunderkind Takefusa Kubo to Mallorca

Takefusa Kubo with Real Madrid. Photo by Kieran McManus/BPI/Shutterstock (10351392ay)

After signing 18-year-old Japanese attacking midfielder Takefusa Kubo from Tokyo FC over the summer, Real Madrid planned for the budding superstar to play for its B-team in Spain’s third division in order to gain experience.

Kubo, however, altered those plans after an excellent preseason that showed that he’s already ready to play in the top flight. Real Madrid knew that Kubo was too good to play with their reserves, so on Thursday, they found him a new home for the 2019-20 season.

The young midfielder was loaned by Real Madrid to La Liga newcomers RCD Mallorca in a deal that will allow Kubo to play in Spain’s top-flight immediately.

Mallorca was promoted to La Liga for the 2019-20 season after finishing in fifth place in Spain’s second division and winning the promotion playoff.

At Mallorca, Kubo will gain experience and playing time as he looks to become a big part of Real Madrid’s future. Known by some as the “Japanese Messi,” Kubo is heralded for his playmaking ability, creativity, and field vision.

His future will probably be with either Real Madrid or some other European giant, but for now, the 18-year-old will look to establish himself in one of the best leagues in the world.

Harley loves music and tries to go to a music festival every summer. When he's not listening to music, he writes about movies, food and wine, art, and sport.