Real Madrid remains alert to the transfer market, but this time not for arrivals; everything indicates that the focus is on departures. Xabi Alonso, the team's new coach, has made it clear that there are players he doesn't count on. Among them, one stands out due to his complicated situation: Raúl Asencio.
The Canary Islands defender currently occupies the last spot in the center-back rotation. Ahead of him are Dean Huijsen, Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and, surprisingly, even David Alaba. Alonso doesn't see Asencio as part of his plans and has asked Florentino Pérez to sell or release him before the market closes on September 1.
A history that weighs
Recent history doesn't play in Asencio's favor; during the Club World Cup, he made notable mistakes that left a mark on him. Since then, his opportunities in the first team have been minimal. Despite this, the center-back keeps hoping to regain prominence, although the competition in defense is enormous.
Curiously, it was Carlo Ancelotti who gave him the opportunity to debut at Real Madrid. However, that promising start hasn't been enough for him to establish himself under Alonso's management. What seemed like a boost in his career has now become an almost impossible challenge to overcome.
The price problem
The situation becomes even more complicated due to the economic factor. Florentino Pérez reportedly requested more than €30 million (over $32.6 million USD) to let Asencio leave. It's a high price for a player the coach himself wants to see leave the club.
That's why interested teams have only made offers close to €15 million (about $16.3 million USD). The difference between the desired and actual figures makes his departure anything but simple.
An opportunity that fades away
For Asencio, the season looks uncertain. Staying on the bench seems his most likely fate, but he trusts he can get minutes and show his worth. For now, his future at Real Madrid is hanging in the air and depends on an offer that convinces the club before September 1.
Asencio's case reflects a common phenomenon in big teams: players who debut with high expectations but, for various reasons, don't manage to establish themselves. Carlo Ancelotti saw him differently at the time, but today the outlook is very different. For the youth academy graduate, the priority will be to look for a team where he can play and regain confidence.