In Real Madrid's dominant 95-67 win over Bàsquet Girona, coach Chus Mateo seized the opportunity to give valuable minutes to the club’s youth players. With two and a half minutes left in the game and a commanding 35-point lead, Mateo fielded a lineup that included three academy talents: Hugo González as shooting guard, Eli John Ndiaye as power forward, and Sedi Gueye, who made his first-team debut as center. This scene highlighted Real Madrid's reliance on its young players, both for training and in regular-season games.

Chus Mateo emphasized after the game the importance of nurturing the club's youth players, explaining that the academy system consistently produces first-team quality talent. He specifically praised Ndiaye and González for their continued development and increasing presence in the rotation. Gueye, only 17 years old and standing at 2.07 meters, made his debut in the final minutes, contributing two rebounds and solid defense. Despite missing a chance to score, he showed determination and focus, reflecting his eagerness to step up for the team.

Ndiaye, who has now played 100 games with the first team, continues to grow in his role, exemplifying the seamless transition from youth player to key squad member. His dedication and performance earned him praise from Mateo, who no longer considers him merely a resource for emergencies. Meanwhile, Hugo González, often seen as Rudy Fernández's successor, delivered his best performance under Mateo’s leadership, scoring 9 points, grabbing six rebounds, and delivering two assists in 18 minutes. His physicality, ball handling, and improvement in key areas left a strong impression, cementing his status as a vital part of the team.

Mateo, delighted with González’s maturity, described him as a "spectacular project player" and a shining example of discipline and hard work. While Mateo remains cautious with his development, the coach made it clear that the youngster is already contributing to the team in significant ways and is poised for continued growth.

Real Madrid’s start to the season has shown that the club’s future is bright, with young talents like Ndiaye, González, and Gueye ready to make their mark, not just as the team’s future but as part of its present.

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