The Spanish national team returns this week with the Nations League competition. Luis de la Fuente wants to keep adding titles as head of the national squad. The draft reflects that ambition, with new faces and some highly desired returns.
One of the big names is Isco. His return has caused excitement after a brilliant season at Betis. The Spanish midfield now has a mix of talent, experience, and youth.
Luis de la Fuente and Xabi Alonso agree on their recent decisions
Dani Carvajal hasn't been able to participate due to injury. The white full-back is still recovering after the serious ailment he suffered months ago. He is expected to return to the national team when he is 100% fit.
There is another absence that has gone more unnoticed, but is very significant. One of the names that seemed certain has been left out without an official explanation. Luis de la Fuente no longer counts on him.
We're talking about Raúl Asencio, who is starting to see his role weaken in the national team, but also at Real Madrid. Everything suggests he will have a very secondary role. That is generating many comments in the white environment.
Xabi Alonso changes his plans and delivers a verdict on Raúl Asencio
The youth player who excited in his first matches no longer brings as much joy. His progression seemed unstoppable a few months ago. However, time has put things in their place.
Xabi Alonso has decided to change the tactical system. He will return to using a four-man defense, abandoning the three-center-back line. This directly affects Raúl Asencio, who loses his best context to shine.
In addition, the competition is fierce in his area. Rüdiger and Huijsen are the starters in Xabi Alonso's plan. Both have more experience and, above all, more trust from the coach than Raúl Asencio does.
Raúl Asencio loses ground at Real Madrid and in the Spanish national team
Luis de la Fuente has left Raúl Asencio out without giving many explanations. Everything points to a lack of trust in his real level. The coach prefers other more established options.
The situation at Real Madrid is no different. Although Xabi Alonso hasn't given public hints yet, the youth player seems destined for the bench. His development has stalled just when the most was demanded of him.
It's early to make definitive statements, but the signs are clear. Raúl Asencio's immediate future looks like that of a substitute. That, at just 22 years old, can be concerning if he doesn't react.
Xabi Alonso will make important decisions in defense this summer
Asencio needs to improve if he wants to regain prominence. Neither in La Roja nor at Bernabéu do they count on him as a main option. Only his effort can change the coaches' perception.
Luis de la Fuente wasn't harsh publicly, but his message is clear. A name or having excelled one day isn't enough. The demands are sky-high, and right now Asencio doesn't reach that standard.
Xabi Alonso has already started making firm decisions. Raúl Asencio, if he doesn't improve, will have to watch many matches from the bench.