Raul Asencio has been a curious case at Real Madrid. The Castilla prodigy became an overnight star at the Santiago Bernabeu with his sensational debut performance against Osasuna not too long ago.
Following that performance, Asencio managed to earn the trust of Carlo Ancelotti, who handed him a start in the next few matches.
However, in recent times, Asencio has once again fallen out of favour, with Ancelotti preferring Aurelien Tchouameni ahead of the academy prodigy at centre-back.
Ancelotti experiments with Asencio
While Ancelotti has clearly has his preference when it comes to the centre-back position, it appears the Real Madrid coach is open to experimenting with the youngster.
According to MARCA, Ancelotti is trying out Asencio in a new right-back position. This move comes as a way to provide rest for Lucas Vazquez and to test Asencio’s versatility.
Raul Asencio will be looking to make an impact in a new position. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Ancelotti has praised Asencio for his calmness and confidence, qualities that have helped him transition into this new role with apparent ease.
Can Asencio seize the opportunity?
Despite his recent performances being limited to substitute appearances in matches against Girona, Atalanta, and Rayo Vallecano, this new opportunity might just be the next ‘loop’ in Asencio’s roller coaster journey at Real Madrid.
His ability to impress in this new position could pave the way for more first-team minutes, especially with the possibility of playing against Sevilla looming.
After all, it is no secret that Real Madrid are not satisfied with the performances of Vazquez at right-back.
Asencio, therefore, must maintain patience and seize any opportunity that he gets in the coming weeks.