Raul Asencio was a surprise yet a necessary solution for Carlo Ancelotti when Eder Militao fell to an ACL knock against Mallorca, earlier this month.
The young defender came on as a first-half substitute for Militao, replacing the Brazilian at the heart of Real Madrid’s four-man backline.
It did not take him long to make an impact either, as the defender produced a brilliant pass that led to Jude Bellingham’s first goal of the season.
Following Raul Asencio’s impressive performance on his debut, one would expect the youngster to have more minutes in the coming weeks, at least until Real Madrid find a new defender.
Raul’s take on Raul Asencio
The ascension of Raul Asencio appears to have impressed his namesake coach at RM Castilla, Raul Gonzalez.
In fact, Raul believes the youngster’s potential breakthrough in the Real Madrid first-team could pave the way for other La Fabrica graduates to make an impact going forward.
“Asencio’s arrival has given the youth team players hope of reaching the first team. The fact is that Madrid’s youth academy is the best in the world,” he told El Chiringuito.
Raul’s statement comes at a time when La Fabrica has lagged behind, in the race to produce more and more talent for the first team.
While the famed La Masia has given Barcelona several first-team stars in recent years, Real Madrid have failed in this aspect, no thanks to Carlo Ancelotti’s apprehension about using inexperienced individuals in the team.
But Raul Asencio could buck the trend, thanks to Real Madrid’s ongoing injury crisis in the defensive unit.
With David Alaba, Nacho Fernandez, Lucas Vazquez and Militao out injured, coupled with Jesus Vallejo growing into an ‘invisible entity’ at the club, Raul has an excellent opportunity to establish himself in the first team.
Although Real Madrid are looking for reinforcements in the upcoming January transfer window, a series of impressive performances could go a long way in convincing Real Madrid to put their faith in Raul Asencio, at least until the end of the campaign.