Fede Valverde is essential at Real Madrid, both for his play and for his leadership in the locker room. With the experience he has gained, Valverde doesn't hesitate to offer advice to younger players. This time, he has set his sights on Raúl Asencio, a defender who isn't experiencing his best moment at the club.
The Uruguayan doesn't beat around the bush and has told Asencio, face to face, that the best thing for him is to go out on loan. This advice not only protects the player but also encourages him to grow in a calmer and more favorable environment for his development.
Raúl Asencio's problems at Madrid
Asencio arrived with high expectations after his debut under Carlo Ancelotti, where he showed flashes of quality. However, since Xabi Alonso took a seat on the bench, the situation has changed. The Basque coach hasn't found in Asencio the performance he desired and hasn't hesitated to leave him out of his main plans.
During the Club World Cup, Asencio was one of the most singled out. His mistakes, including penalties conceded and a sending off, took their toll on him.
This constant pressure and lack of playing time have caused the defender to lose confidence and consistency. The shadow of the bench looms over him and the future in the first team is increasingly uncertain.
The loan as an escape and learning opportunity
Valverde knows well what it means to go out on loan; he himself did so when he played for Castilla and was sent to Deportivo de La Coruña to accumulate minutes and experience. That period away from Madrid was essential for his development. It allowed him to grow away from the media spotlight, improve technically, and return to the club more complete and ready to compete at the highest level.
That's why he recommends that Asencio take advantage of a loan. It's not a step back, but an opportunity to regain confidence, acquire competitive rhythm, and return stronger. In addition, at a less high-profile team, he'll have more room to make mistakes, learn, and grow without the constant pressure that exists at Real Madrid.
What awaits Asencio if he doesn't go out on loan?
The reality is that the market is active and Madrid could sign a new center-back to strengthen the squad. If this happens, Asencio's position would become even more complicated. He would be last in the rotation, condemned to spend most of his time on the bench and without real opportunities to show his level.
Staying in this situation could seriously affect his career. The lack of playing time, the pressure of a big club, and constant criticism are factors that can sink a young player. That's why Valverde's advice makes even more sense: a loan is the best way to avoid stagnation and pave the way for a successful future.