Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has described midfielder Eduardo Camavinga as an "untouchable" player at Real Madrid.
When Camavinga arrived at the Bernabeu as a 19-year-old in August 2021, he had already made 85 appearances during his stint at Rennes.
However, despite his rapid progression on the club scene, as well as with the France national team, Camavinga is yet to be regarded as an automatic first-choice pick at Real.
Although Camavinga has made 80 outings for Los Blancos in all competition, exactly half of those appearances have come from the substitutes' bench.
Furthermore, Camavinga - now 20 years of age - has found himself increasingly likely to deputise at left-back rather than in the middle of the pitch.
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Speculation persists that the reigning European champions may look to add to their options in central midfield during the summer transfer window with Jude Bellingham being heavily linked with a transfer.
While that may not necessarily impact Camavinga's future, it theoretically leaves it in doubt with Real also said to be keen to renew the contracts of veterans Luka Modric and Toni Kroos.
Nevertheless, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Ancelotti revealed his faith in Camavinga and wants him to remain at Real in the long term.
The Italian told reporters: "Camavinga is very important. In the last game, he made obvious mistakes, but by playing so well he makes you forget all the bad things.
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"Against Espanyol, he made a very big mistake, but then he played a very good game. He is untouchable now and in the future."
Camavinga, again playing at left-back, attempted and failed to beat an Espanyol player to the ball, allowing a cross to be converted by Joselu as the visitors took a surprise lead.
Real would fight back to secure a 3-1 victory in Saturday's La Liga fixture, but they remain nine points adrift of leaders Barcelona in the standings.
Camavinga, who has a contract until 2027, will hope to feature when Real Madrid face Liverpool in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday night.
Darren Plant
