Neither Mbappé, nor Valverde, nor Vinicius—this is the player who seems indispensable for the end of the season.
Raúl Asencio: The Key Player for Real Madrid’s Season Finale
His Recent Performances Make Him Indispensable for Ancelotti
Raúl Asencio has solidified his place as a crucial figure at Real Madrid. At just 22 years old, the academy graduate has become fundamental, having played 26 matches with the first team. Despite being benched at Benito Villamarín without playing a single minute, his absence was deeply felt. In the last three matches where he did not start, Carlo Ancelotti’s side suffered defeats.
The Italian coach decided to give Raúl Asencio a well-earned rest during the La Liga clash against Real Betis, considering the emotional toll he endured just three days earlier in San Sebastián. However, this might not have been the best timing for such a decision.
During the first half of the Copa del Rey semifinal against Real Sociedad, Asencio faced death threats from the stands at the Reale Arena. Ancelotti also wanted to keep him fresh for the crucial first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 derby against Atlético Madrid.
Asencio Set to Start in the Madrid Derby
Raúl Asencio’s importance to Real Madrid is undeniable. In all three of their recent defeats, the young defender was absent from the starting lineup. Last season, the team suffered only two losses, yet they have already recorded eight this campaign. Keeping Asencio on the bench does not seem to be the solution to their struggles.
March is a decisive month for Real Madrid, and the team will need the best version of Raúl Asencio. Having mentally recovered after Ancelotti protected him from further distress at the Reale Arena and given him a break at Benito Villamarín, the young defender is ready to step up.
On Tuesday, Asencio will return to the starting lineup alongside Antonio Rüdiger, tasked with stopping Atlético Madrid’s attack. His composure and authority on the field, rare qualities for a defender of his age, have already impressed the football world. Now, he aims to prove once again why he is essential to Real Madrid’s success.
