Jacobo Ramon is one of many Real Madrid academy graduates to have sought first-team football away from the Bernabeu, having joined Italian side Como last season.

The defender, who made his Real Madrid debut in January 2025, is now looking to establish himself in Italy under Cesc Fabregas, with Los Blancos retaining a buy-back option.

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Speaking to EFE during Spain’s Under-21 training camp, Ramon touched on a possible Real Madrid return, the exodus of academy talent and the Ballon d’Or race, among other things.

On his future and a Real Madrid return

The centre-back made clear his focus remains firmly on the present and his development at Como.

“I’m focused on the present. I’m very happy at Como and I’m only thinking about doing my best this season, winning a lot of games and getting as far as possible,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).

Jacobo Ramon is not thinking about a Real Madrid return right now. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

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He also offered his take on the wave of young players leaving Real Madrid for opportunities elsewhere.

“It’s a good sign because it shows how well the youth academy is working,” Ramon said.

“They wouldn’t get as many minutes with the first team, but they do get them playing time elsewhere, giving them the confidence to develop as footballers and show what fantastic players they are.”

On Barcelona’s academy and breaking through at Madrid

Ramon was asked whether he felt any envy at how Barcelona hand opportunities to their academy players.

“Honestly, no. Every player has their own path, their own timing, and makes the best decision they think is right for them.

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“At Barça, if they’re given the opportunity and they want to stay, and so on, but at Madrid, if you see that you can get more playing time or if you think it’s best to leave and develop, then go for it. But, no, no envy whatsoever,” he said.

He also addressed the challenge of establishing oneself at Real Madrid.

“At Real Madrid, you have the best players in the world; playing time isn’t handed out, but last year saw the most debuts.

“Two years ago, I debuted, along with Chema (Andres), Victor (Munoz), Gonzalo (Garcia), so many people, and I’m sure more will make their debuts,” he noted.

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On the Ballon d’Or and Mbappe

Ramon believes Mbappe deserves the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images)

Finally, Ramon gave his verdict on the Ballon d’Or race, backing former teammate Kylian Mbappe, who himself has been making a push for the award.

“There are many opinions. For me, Mbappe has had a fantastic season; he’s a fantastic player. Plus, having trained with him, I know he’s unstoppable, and for me, between him and Lamine (Yamal), they’re the candidates,” he said.

The defender, who trained against Real Madrid’s stars during his time at the club, also revealed which players he found toughest to face.

“In training, definitely. (Toni) Kroos and (Luka) Modric impressed me a lot, but as defenders, Mbappe and Vinicius are tough,” he concluded.