Circumstances have forced Carlo Ancelotti to turn to Real Madrid’s youth squad over the past two months. Unlike last season, when key injuries to Thibaut Courtois, Éder Militao, and David Alaba were covered by first-team players, the current situation is far more precarious. For the next month, Real Madrid will be without a natural right-back and will have just one senior centre-back, aside from Jesús Vallejo, leaving Ancelotti with limited options.
This has opened the door for a promising youth player, Raúl Asencio, who has made a strong impression. His standout performance against Osasuna has drawn praise, with many commentators suggesting it could be a turning point in his career. According to Marca, Asencio was the subject of interest from major clubs, including Pep Guardiola's Manchester City, last summer. However, the young centre-back chose to remain at Real Madrid, believing in his potential to become an important part of the first team—a belief that was vindicated by his debut against Osasuna.
Asencio understands the high expectations at Real Madrid and is reportedly ready to step up, even in crucial matches like the upcoming one at Anfield against Liverpool. Though the potential signing of Aymeric Laporte or another centre-back could challenge his place, Asencio is determined to prove himself and earn Ancelotti’s trust. Whether the Italian coach continues to rely on him remains to be seen, but Asencio’s fight for a role in the squad is just beginning.
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