A man in a red and blue jacket is speaking in front of a microphone with the RFEF logo, while in the background a player in a white and blue uniform is seen on a training field.
De la Fuente speaking into a microphone with Asencio behind him during a training session | Camara Real Madrid Confidencial
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The Unexpected Response from De La Fuente on Raúl Asencio's Exclusion: 'He's Happy'

The Coach Justifies Himself in a Surprising Way About the Decision Regarding Asencio

by

Borja Díaz

The draft of Asencio to the Spanish national team was undoubtedly a great joy for him. It was a fair recognition of the performance he is showing at Real Madrid this season. But in the first match against the Netherlands, he saw how he suffered a significant setback.

De la Fuente made the decision not to call him up but to include Huijsen, even though he wasn't on the list. Dean came in due to Íñigo Martínez's injury and eventually ended up ahead of Asencio. Something surprising, and many expected an explanation from the coach for that decision.

A player in a white and blue training uniform walks across the field while other players practice in the background.
Raúl Asencio in a Training Session with the Spanish National Team | Real Madrid Confidencial

It was in the press conference before the second match against the Dutch team where he replied. He did so with an answer that left many very surprised. He assured that despite being the one left out, "he is happy", once again generating controversy with his words.

Regarding the exclusions he has to make for these matches, he indicated that "it was Raúl's turn, he understood without any issue. He is happy to live this experience", adding that the draft is a reward. But he forgets that he earned it with outstanding performances.

De La Fuente Backtracks and Finally Does Justice with Raúl Asencio

He missed the first match against the Netherlands, but he was included in the draft for the second. Asencio will be at Mestalla with the number '4', and we'll see if he finally makes his debut with the senior national team. He has many chances after Cubarsí's injury last Thursday.

A player in an orange jersey points upwards during a match.
Asencio making a gesture with his hand | Real Madrid Confidencial

Although he could repeat with Le Normand and Huijsen as starters, leaving Asencio on the bench. This Sunday, we will finally know what decision De La Fuente makes. It wouldn't be surprising if he forgets about him and doesn't give him a single minute during the match.

For now, he is in the draft, which is already a step considering what happened on Thursday. Something that, as we say, Asencio has earned by his own right with his quality and performance. No matter how much the coach wants to sell it as just a reward.

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