Carlos Espí

Carlos Espí Escrihuela (born 24 July 2005) is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a forward for club Real Madrid.

Espí developed through the youth system of Levante and made his first-team debut in 2024. After establishing himself with the senior side and being named La Liga's best under-23 player, he joined Real Madrid in 2026.

Espí has represented Spain under-19 and under-20 level.

Club career Early career Born in Tavernes de la Valldigna, Valencian Community, Espí began his career with hometown side Tavernes at the age of six. In 2020, he joined Alzira, where he spent two seasons playing mainly for their Cadete and Juvenil squads. In that club, he also made his senior debut with the B-team, playing the last 19 minutes of a 1–0 Segunda Regional Valenciana home win over Barxeta.

Levante Espí joined Levante's youth setup in 2022, initially for the Juvenil team. He made his debut with the reserves on 19 November 2023, coming on as a late substitute in a 0–0 Tercera Federación home draw against Rayo Ibense.

Espí scored his first senior goal on 29 November 2023, netting the B's opener in a 2–1 home success over Silla; it was also his first senior start. He made his first team debut the following 18 February, replacing Mohamed Bouldini late into a 0–0 Segunda División away draw against Racing de Ferrol.

Espí scored his first professional goal on 26 May 2024, netting his team's second in a 2–2 home draw against Alcorcón. He was regularly used in the main squad during the 2024–25 season, scoring six times as the club returned to La Liga after three years.

Espí made his debut in the main category of Spanish football on 23 August 2025, playing the last 15 minutes in a 3–2 home loss to Barcelona. He scored his first goal in the division the following 4 January, netting his team's second in a 3–0 win at Sevilla.

On 24 February 2026, Espí renewed his link with the Granotes until 2028, and scored a brace in a 2–0 home success over Alavés three days later. He scored five goals in the following five matches, including another double in a 4–2 win over Real Oviedo. He concluded the 2025–26 season as his club's top scorer with 11 goals.

Real Madrid On 30 July 2026, Espí signed for La Liga club Real Madrid on a contract until 30 June 2031, becoming the biggest sale in Levante's history in a deal reportedly worth a €25 million release clause. A month later, on 22 August, he scored his first goal on his debut, securing a 2–1 away victory over Espanyol.

International career On 13 February 2024, Espí was called up to the Spain national under-19 team for two friendlies against Norway. He featured in both matches, scoring twice in the first one.

Career statistics

Honours Levante Segunda División: 2024–25

Individual La Liga Player of the Month: March 2026 La Liga U23 Player of the Season: 2025–26