Ruiz has taken his reputation beyond the Spanish youth game after helping Spain win the inaugural FIFA Under-15 World Cup in Baku, finishing the tournament as one of its leading scorers and attracting attention from Premier League clubs.
The 15-year-old Real Madrid prospect shared the competition's Golden Boot with eight goals as Spain defeated the Czech Republic 3-0 in the final. His performances have put him firmly on the radar of scouts, with Manchester United among the English clubs reported to be monitoring his progress.
Ruiz, who wears the number 10 for Spain, has been one of the defining players of the tournament. His influence has extended beyond his goals, with his ability to receive possession, carry the ball and create opportunities making him a central figure in David Gordo's side.
The final completed an impressive run for Spain, who negotiated the knockout rounds with victories over Wales, Ecuador, Colombia and Greece before beating the Czech Republic for the title. Ruiz scored twice against Colombia in the quarter-finals and added another brace against Greece in the semi-finals. He had also scored the equaliser against Wales that took the last-16 tie to a penalty shoot-out.
Spain's three goals in the final came from Tiago Polo, Bruno Fernández and Adrián Bielsa, securing the trophy at Baku Crystal Hall. Ruiz was among the Madrid players involved in the successful campaign, alongside Adrián Bielsa and Mikel López.
The tournament's unusual format provided a different test for the young players. Matches were played eight-a-side, with two 20-minute halves, placing particular emphasis on technical ability, quick decisions and movement in tight spaces. Ruiz's close control and ability to drive towards goal proved especially effective in those conditions.
Born in La Solana, in Ciudad Real, Ruiz joined Real Madrid's academy in 2019 after attracting attention during a friendly between his local team and the club. A hat-trick in that match helped convince Madrid's coaches to bring him to La Fábrica when he was just eight years old.
His early development required considerable commitment from his family. For a period, he travelled to Madrid twice a week for training while continuing to spend the rest of his time in La Solana. His parents eventually moved with him to the capital as his footballing education progressed.
Ruiz has moved through the club's youth categories, from Benjamín to Alevín and Infantil, and is now playing for Cadete A. His previous season was particularly productive: he scored 34 goals and provided 19 assists for Infantil A, despite still being eligible for that age group.
He has also made progress with Spain's youth teams, becoming the leading scorer of his generation across the Under-14 and Under-15 levels, with 19 international goals. At the 2023 LaLiga Promises tournament, he was named both the most valuable player and top scorer after finishing with nine goals.
A left-footed attacking midfielder who can also operate from the right, Ruiz is comfortable moving inside to use his stronger foot. His game combines close dribbling, a powerful shot and an instinct for arriving in scoring positions, but he is not simply a finisher. He regularly drops deeper to receive possession and contribute to the build-up.
His versatility was also evident in Baku, where he was prepared to fill in at left-back when Spain needed him. That willingness to adapt has added another dimension to his development.
Ruiz renewed his contract with Madrid in July 2025, keeping him at the club until 2028. Interest from England does not present an immediate transfer threat: Brexit regulations mean a Premier League club would have to wait until he is 18 before attempting to sign him.
For now, his focus remains on progressing at Madrid. He has already made his debut for Juvenil C and has continued to impress with Cadete A, but his performances in Baku have given his name a much wider audience. The World Cup title is another milestone in a development that Madrid will be keen to keep on track.