Was transferred from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in June, 15 days before his 20th birthday, for €103 million. He made an immediate impact and was named La Liga Player of the Month in August. He scored on his La Liga and Champions League debuts and also in his first El Clásico against Barcelona in October, where he hit a brilliant equaliser from 25 metres, then scored again in the 92nd minute to secure a 2-1 win. He scored ten goals in his first ten matches for Real. Known for his exceptional control of the ball, his physicality and his technical quality, he is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world. He was named best Under-21 player in the Ballon d’Or awards in October.