The integration of Real Madrid Castilla’s Raúl Asencio into Carlo Ancelotti’s first team has been nothing short of transformative. At just 21 years old, the Canarian central defender has stepped into one of the most scrutinized roles in football and has not only managed to hold his own but excelled.
Álvaro Benito, the former Real Madrid player and now an insightful voice on Fútbol en Movistar Plus+, eloquently summarized Asencio’s early impact. “Raúl Asencio is an absolute reality,” he told Juanma Castaño. .
Benito pointed to Asencio’s performances in the Champions League against Liverpool as prime examples of his readiness. “We could say that Asencio has had two good matches in La Liga, less demanding... as is often said in these cases. But he put in a fantastic performance against Liverpool. There is a player here,” Benito observed. To shine at Anfield in Europe’s most prestigious competition is no small feat, especially for a young defender finding his feet in the first team.
The 6ft defender’s attributes have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Benito elaborated on Asencio’s skillset, praising his organizational abilities and defensive discipline. “Everything related to order, concentration, and defensive concepts he performs perfectly. He never takes the team out of shape,” said Benito. These qualities are not just commendable; they are foundational for a center-back at a club like Real Madrid, where lapses in focus are ruthlessly punished.
What’s even more impressive is the ripple effect Asencio has had on his defensive partners, particularly Antonio Rudiger. “He has helped Antonio Rudiger’s performance, who is much more organized with Raúl at his side,” Benito highlighted. The German international, known for his physicality and aggressive defending, has found a complementary partner in Asencio. Together, they have brought a newfound stability to Real Madrid’s backline.