Everything has changed for Raúl Asencio since Xabi Alonso's arrival. The new coach of Real Madrid hasn't been convinced at all by his performances in the World Cup and is clear that he isn't part of his plans. He intends to play next season with three center-backs, and the Canary Islands defender doesn't quite fit in, with his future also hanging in the air.
Asencio has gone from being untouchable for Ancelotti to being completely expendable for Xabi Alonso. Nobody expected this change in plans, as he had even earned a contract renewal until 2031. Starting this season, he will be part of the first team squad, leaving behind his number 35 to switch to one between 1 and 25.
Raúl Asencio: future in doubt
However, he is doing so at a complicated time. Until very recently, several clubs wanted to pay his €50 million ($50 million) release clause. But this has changed since Xabi Alonso's arrival. His market value has dropped and he is now in the background, clearly a substitute at Real Madrid.
Xabi Alonso's arrival on the Real Madrid bench has caused a major change in the club's sporting plans. One of the direct consequences has been suffered by Raúl Asencio, a 22-year-old center-back who seemed set to make the definitive leap to the first team. However, his progression has been unexpectedly halted.
Xabi Alonso's request
Xabi Alonso, aware of the defensive demands of a club like Madrid, has been clear with Florentino Pérez from the start of his tenure: he needs a top-level center-back. For this reason, he has requested the signing of Ibrahima Konaté, currently at Liverpool, as an absolute priority to strengthen the back line. If this move goes through, it would push Asencio even further down the pecking order.
Competition is already fierce in that position. Dean Huijsen, recently signed and with great potential, has Xabi's full trust. In addition, David Alaba, Éder Militão, and Antonio Rüdiger complete a reliable defense, with experience and leadership.
In this context, Asencio's situation is becoming more complicated. The young defender sees his path to the "seniors" narrowing. The club hasn't made a final decision about his future yet, but a loan or even a permanent departure aren't ruled out.
At 22, Asencio needs minutes and continuity to keep developing. His talent is undeniable, but his fit in this new project led by Xabi Alonso is more in doubt than ever. The center-back's future will largely depend on how the market develops and whether Real Madrid manage to complete the signing of Konaté.