Real Madrid's Joan Martinez has to undergo surgery for a cruciate ligament injury

Real Madrid defender Joan Martinez will undergo surgery next week after tearing the cruciate ligament in his left knee.

The 16-year-old central defender sustained the injury during a training session with Real Madrid's first team, with whom he took part in the club's pre-season tour of the United States.

He will be examined on Tuesday, his 17th birthday, and is scheduled to undergo surgery later in the week.

He will undergo surgery in the next few days, but it is still unclear how long he will be out.

The player was a popular player during Madrid's US tour, where he played two games against AC Milan and Barcelona.

He was expected to get more chances in the first team this season following the departure of Nacho Fernandez and the failure to sign defender Leny Yoro, who instead moved to Manchester United.

Martinez has a contract in Madrid until 2026. His place in the squad will be taken by another highly valued young central defender: Jacobo Ramon.

Madrid begins defending its La Liga title against Mallorca on Sunday (August 18).