This year's January transfer window, just like the previous one, saw much speculation over the future of Alvaro Odriozola at Real Madrid.
He'd been previously had an unsuccessful loan spell at Bayern Munich, and with only 57 minutes against Real Valladolid under his belt by the New Year, many expected him to be loaned out again.
However, with the long list of injuries at the club, Odriozola decided to stay and try to fight for an opportunity in the first team, despite being fifth choice in his position behind Dani Carvajal, Lucas Vazquez, Nacho Fernandez and Fede Valverde.
Odriozola bided his time, waiting patiently for his chance, aware in the knowledge that when he did get his chance the fans and the media would have him under a magnifying glass.
His opportunity finally came against Barcelona and he had an impressive performance over 47 minutes, marshalling Lionel Messi well.
The defender hasn't looked back since and has now featured in 10 of Real Madrid's last 11 matches, only missing the Champions League semi-final second leg at Stamford Bridge.
A new deal in the offing?
There is no doubt that Odriozola's self-confidence will be sky high at the moment, with him notching two goals in his last ten appearances and producing some great runs and assists down the right flank.
With some strong performances, the injuries to Carvajal and Marvin Park and the future of Lucas remaining uncertain, giving Odriozola a new deal could be the ideal solution for Real Madrid going forward.
Source: m.allfootballapp.com