Raúl Asencio has become one of Real Madrid's great surprises this season. Every time he has played, he has demonstrated defensive solidity, speed, and good positioning. However, despite his good performance, Carlo Ancelotti still doesn't fully trust him for the most important matches.
Against Betis, Madrid suffered a tough defeat at Benito Villamarín, and once again Asencio wasn't a starter. A pattern is starting to emerge, as in the last three matches that Los Blancos have lost, he hasn't been in the starting eleven.
The Statistic That Points to Ancelotti
Beyond the impressions, the numbers reinforce Asencio's importance in the team. In the 19 matches that Real Madrid has played without him, the team has conceded 34 goals. In contrast, when he has been a starter, in 18 matches, they have only conceded 15 goals.
This statistic highlights Ancelotti's decision not to rely on him in key moments. The defeat against Betis, with Rüdiger and Alaba injured, reopens the debate about Asencio's role.
A Record That Surprises Rüdiger
Beyond his defensive solidity, Asencio has also made his mark in the Champions League with an impressive statistic. At the Metropolitano, Asencio reached 22.2 mph (35.8 km/h) in a defensive sprint, the record for a center-back in this Champions League.
Antonio Rüdiger, one of the most physical defenders in current soccer, couldn't hide his amazement upon learning the statistic. "It's unbelievable," the German reportedly said, surprised by his young teammate's speed. Surpassing 21.7 mph (35 km/h) is not common for a center-back, which clearly shows that Asencio has tremendous potential.
Change of Plans for the Decisive Stretch?
With the schedule becoming increasingly demanding and the fight for titles at its hottest point, Ancelotti will have to make important decisions. He will have to choose between relying on the experience of his usual center-backs or giving Asencio more minutes and confidence.
The numbers are on his side, and his performance on the field is as well. The big question is whether the Italian coach will finally give him the opportunity to establish himself as a starter or if he will continue to be relegated to a secondary role. The debate is on.