The prestigious Real Madrid has informed Cuban winger Jenry Hernández that he will be joining their Juvenil B squad for the 2026-2027 season. There is also potential for him to play for Juvenil A should his performance merit it, according to 14ymedio.
This move marks a significant step forward in the 17-year-old's journey through La Fábrica, Real Madrid's esteemed youth academy. In the 2025-2026 season, Hernández was part of Juvenil C, the club’s third U19 team, and celebrated a championship win in Group 1 of the Primera División Autonómica Juvenil de Madrid.
Hernández played 16 matches, starting in 10 of them and scoring three goals. However, a hamstring injury affected his consistency during the latter half of the season.
The Rise of Jenry Hernández
Originally from Pinar del Río, Cuba, Hernández moved to Spain when he was just a year old. He developed his skills in Catalonia, playing for Unión Esportivo Cornellà, before being signed by Real Madrid in February 2024.
Since arriving in Madrid, the Cuban-born player has attracted attention with his physical attributes: standing 1.80 meters tall, reaching speeds close to 36 km/h, and being left-footed. These qualities have led to comparisons with the legendary Gareth Bale.
His potential is so promising that he has even been called up to train with Real Madrid Castilla, the club's second-tier team. His contract with the Spanish giant extends until 2028.
International Aspirations and Challenges
On the international stage, Hernández has expressed his desire to represent Cuba in the FIFA U17 World Cup set to take place in Qatar from November 19 to December 13 this year. However, his participation hinges on Real Madrid's approval.
Despite this ambition, his team has ruled out participation in the Concacaf U20 Pre-World Cup in Mexico, running from July 24 to August 9, to avoid aggravating his hamstring injury.
Cuba secured its spot in the Qatar U17 World Cup after a 35-year absence from the tournament, their last appearance being in Italy in 1991. The team, known as the Caribbean Lions and coached by Sandro Sevillano, finished undefeated and topped Group F in the qualifiers held in Guatemala.
Should Real Madrid permit it, the Qatar World Cup could serve as Jenry Hernández’s first major international showcase while donning the Cuban jersey.
Jenry Hernández and Real Madrid: Key Questions
What is the significance of Jenry Hernández joining Real Madrid's Juvenil B?
Joining Juvenil B is a crucial step in Hernández's development within Real Madrid's youth system, offering him the opportunity to advance to higher levels based on his performance.
Why is Jenry Hernández not participating in the Concacaf U20 Pre-World Cup?
His team decided against his participation to prevent any risk of aggravating his hamstring injury, prioritizing his long-term health and career prospects.
How did Cuba qualify for the FIFA U17 World Cup after such a long absence?
Cuba qualified by finishing undefeated and first in Group F during the qualifying rounds held in Guatemala, marking their return to the tournament after 35 years.