A player in a white uniform slides to intercept the ball while an opponent in a dark uniform tries to advance; in an inset, a coach gestures from the sideline.
Asencio making a tackle against Manchester City and Ancelotti giving instructions in a circle | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
FIRST TEAM

A Coach Publicly Requests Asencio's Signing for His Team: 'if He Stops Playing'

He has confessed his desire to have the Madrid center-back if he doesn't get minutes

by

Borja Díaz

Raúl Asencio has become the great surprise of Real Madrid this season. The youth player had to step up after Militão's injury a few months ago against Osasuna. From the very beginning, the center-back's performances have been excellent.

However, Ancelotti preferred to bet on Tchouaméni alongside Rüdiger, which caused numerous criticisms. Many didn't understand why that decision was made instead of starting Raúl. But in recent matches, he backtracked and Asencio has established himself against Atlético and City.

Two Real Madrid soccer players celebrate on the field during a match.
Asencio and Bellingham shaking hands | Getty Images

It seems that he won't be taken out of there, at least while Alaba doesn't have the necessary pace for demanding matches. Although Ancelotti is warned in case he decides to stop giving him opportunities. A coach has expressed his desire to have Asencio in his ranks.

It was Raúl, the Castilla coach, who was very eloquent after the victory against Alcorcón. "If one day Asencio doesn't play with the first team, let him come and lend us a hand" he assured. The center-back left the reserve team to join the first team halfway through the season.

Asencio Is a Full-Fledged First Team Player and They Count on Him

Despite Raúl's desire, it seems unlikely that Asencio will go down to the reserve team at any point. Ancelotti already assured some time ago that he considers him a full-fledged first team player. And right now, he is his starting center-back, as he demonstrated in the Champions League against Manchester City.

Two players in action during a match, one in a white uniform and the other in a maroon uniform, with a soccer ball nearby.
Asencio fighting for a ball against Manchester City | Real Madrid Confidencial

In fact, looking ahead to the next season, they have no doubt he will continue, although there are offers from the Premier League. The great performance he is delivering hasn't gone unnoticed by other teams. But Real Madrid believes he will have a long career at Bernabéu.

They see him as the new Nacho, with the potential to be an important piece for any coach. To such an extent that he has made them not feel as urgent about signing a center-back in the market. Although they are still looking for candidates due to the age of Rüdiger and Alaba.

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