Carlos Espí explains why he chose Real Madrid over Premier League clubs, describing the Spanish giants’ offer as impossible to reject
Spanish striker Carlos Espí has revealed that he turned down opportunities to join Premier League clubs after Real Madrid made an approach for him during the 2026 summer transfer window, saying the Spanish giants were impossible to reject.
The 21-year-old forward made the disclosure during an interview on Cadena SER’s El Larguero on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, where he reflected on his rapid move from Levante to Real Madrid and his adjustment to life at the Santiago Bernabéu.1
Espí said negotiations moved quickly after Real Madrid expressed interest, bringing an end to discussions with English clubs.
“There were options to go to the Premier League, but when Real Madrid appeared, I couldn’t reject it. Everything happened very quickly; the deal was completed in two days,” he said.
Real Madrid officially announced his signing on July 30, 2026, after agreeing a transfer with Levante. The Spanish club reportedly paid his €25m release clause, securing his services on a five-year contract running until June 2031.
The transfer followed an impressive campaign at Levante, where Espí scored 11 goals in 25 La Liga appearances during the 2025/26 season. His performances helped the club retain its top-flight status and earned him recognition as La Liga’s best under-23 player for the campaign.
His arrival at Real Madrid came after the departure of fellow striker Gonzalo García to Fulham, with the English club confirming the transfer on August 3, 2026.
Although Espí has had limited playing time, he said he remained determined to make the most of every opportunity given to him by manager José Mourinho.
“I will fight for Real Madrid. I will give my best, everything,” he said.
The striker also praised Mourinho’s approach, describing the Portuguese manager as approachable but demanding.
“What I highlight about Mourinho is how incredible he is, how close he is and how demanding he is. The fact that he pays so much attention to me is very good for me. It is important that he tells me what I do well and what I do badly,” he said.
Espí revealed that Mourinho had encouraged him to remain patient, work hard in training and take advantage of every minute on the pitch.
The forward also spoke about learning from his high-profile teammates, particularly French striker Kylian Mbappé, whom he described as the best player in the world.
He said he tried to learn from Mbappé during training sessions, paying attention to his speed, dribbling ability and advice.
“It is a privilege to train with him,” Espí said.
The young striker also acknowledged the support he had received from former Levante teammate Gonzalo García, who now plays for Fulham. According to Espí, García encouraged him to keep working hard and make the most of the opportunities available at Madrid.
Espí’s comments underline his determination to establish himself at one of football’s most demanding clubs, despite the competition for places in a squad featuring some of the game’s biggest names.
For the Valencian forward, the move from Levante to Real Madrid has been a rapid rise, but he says his priority remains clear: continue improving, earn Mourinho’s trust and fight for a regular place in the team.
