Real Madrid is experiencing a moment of off-field tension that directly affects the image of its youth academy. Raúl Asencio, its emerging star, has become the protagonist of a story that's generating unease in Valdebebas.
The Public Prosecutor's Office has requested four years in prison for him for an alleged crime against privacy.
The origin of the problem
The events that led to this situation date back to the summer of 2023. Asencio, along with other youth football teammates, was in Gran Canaria.
During those days, several players had consensual sexual relations with two girls, one of whom was underage.
The encounter was recorded without consent. According to the Public Prosecutor's Office, Raúl Asencio showed that video to a third party, although he didn't participate in either the sexual act or the recording.
This simple act of "showing" the video places him at the center of an investigation for disclosure of secrets with the aggravating circumstance of a minor being involved. It's a crime that could cost him not only prison, but also his professional career.
The Public Prosecutor's Office requests 4 years in prison
The Public Prosecutor's Office is requesting a sentence of four years in prison, a fine of €6,000, and joint compensation of €58,000 for the victims. The seriousness of the case has had an immediate impact within the club.
Although neither Asencio nor Real Madrid have made official statements on the matter, nervousness is already palpable in the club's offices. The board, led by Florentino Pérez, is following the case with the utmost discretion, aware of the reputational risk it may pose for La Fábrica, considered one of the best youth academies in the world.
Raúl Asencio was one of the great prospects of the reserve team. In this same season, he showed his quality in the first team, earning a spot as a starter. However, this situation has halted any sporting plans with him.
The club hasn't adopted disciplinary measures for now. It's waiting for the trial to take place. It can't be ruled out that, if media pressure continues, decisions will be made imminently.
It's the reason why he's not in De la Fuente's squad
Both the club and the player know that if he hasn't been drafted by the national team for the Nations League, it's not for sporting reasons. The Federation is waiting for his case to be solved.
Meanwhile, the player is going through a true personal ordeal. Sources close to the player say that he is devastated. Very worried about his future, aware of the damage this scandal may cause him both personally and professionally.
The trial doesn't have a confirmed date yet, but the investigation is already progressing. Asencio's lawyers are preparing his defense, arguing that there was no intention to harm anyone. Even so, the criminal process is ongoing and everything indicates that Real Madrid's image will suffer another media setback.
In fact, Asencio has been reminded of the matter during several away trips by rival fans.