Bombshell in Real Madrid’s defense, a change involving Huijsen and Asencio is reported ahead of time
🚨 Defensive Shake-Up at Real Madrid: Huijsen In, Asencio Out?
Dean Huijsen hasn’t even been officially presented at the Santiago Bernabéu, but his arrival is already causing a stir in the Real Madrid dressing room. The Spanish center-back, fresh from international duty in the UEFA Nations League, is reportedly being lined up as a starter for the Club World Cup — a bold decision that could push Raúl Asencio back to the bench.
🔄 A New Defensive Order
According to internal plans leaked to the press, Huijsen is being fast-tracked into the starting XI. This move reflects Real Madrid’s enormous faith in the 19-year-old, who recently signed from Bournemouth in what is seen as a long-term investment in the club’s back line.
While the other central spot will remain a battle between Antonio Rüdiger, Éder Militão, and Raúl Asencio, the surprise is that Asencio — last season’s breakout star — may find himself on the outside looking in.
📉 A Harsh Twist for Asencio
Asencio’s journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Promoted from Castilla mid-season to cover for an injury crisis, the 22-year-old played over 2,500 minutes across all competitions. He went from stopgap to indisputable starter, earning praise from both fans and media for his maturity and reliability.
But football moves fast — and often brutally. Despite his performance, the signing of Huijsen could mean that Asencio returns to a secondary role, especially with Militão now back from injury.
💪 Fight for a Spot
If there’s one thing we’ve learned about Raúl Asencio, it’s that he doesn’t shy away from a challenge. With Rüdiger and Militão offering experience, and Huijsen bringing youthful promise, the central defense is now a battleground.
Asencio has already proved once that he belongs at the top. Now he’ll need to do it again — but with even more pressure and fewer guarantees.
⚪ Madrid’s Youth Gamble
This reshuffle confirms what many suspected: Real Madrid’s long-term vision favors emerging talent over established comfort. The fact that the club is willing to give Huijsen a starting spot before his first official training session says a lot about the faith Xabi Alonso and the board have placed in him.
For Asencio, the message is clear: nothing is given. Everything must be earned.
