Real Madrid didn't perform as desired in the first match of the Club World Cup and Xabi Alonso intends to make decisions. The main one singled out in this draw against Al-Hilal is none other than Raúl Asencio, who was substituted after halftime. The Canary Islander committed a penalty that ended up becoming the Arabs' 1-1 equalizer, and his situation could change abruptly. In the Basque's plans is to make changes in the center of defense for the next match against Pachuca.
Raúl Asencio, to the bench against Pachuca
After drawing against Al-Hilal, Real Madrid may have complicated its situation in the Club World Cup. If it doesn't want to be eliminated early, it will have to overcome Pachuca next Sunday the 22nd, in a key match against the last-placed team in the group. To do so, Xabi Alonso is planning some key changes in the starting eleven, including the return of Raúl Asencio to the bench.
"Marca" has revealed that Antonio Rüdiger is fully recovered from his physical problems and is ready to play again. The idea is that he'll be back against Pachuca and will take the spot left open by Asencio. What Xabi Alonso is certain about is that the main starter in the center of defense is Huijsen, who is completely immovable no matter what happens.
From there, what he's looking for now is the ideal partner for the Spaniard. In his first match, Raúl Asencio didn't fully convince him, and now he intends to give Rüdiger the opportunity, hoping he'll respond better.
Asencio had his contract renewal with Real Madrid done
Raúl Asencio's contract renewal with Real Madrid is already finalized. Despite the legal mess he has ahead, the Madrid youth product will extend his contract to continue at Santiago Bernabéu until June 30, 2031. The trust is absolute and they trust him for the future, believing that the accusation against him will come to nothing sooner rather than later.
At 22 years old, Asencio has been promoted to the first team of Real Madrid this past season, due to problems in the defensive line. Despite the poor results in Ancelotti's last season, he has performed at a high level. The Canary Islander has earned the starting spot and they've wanted to reward him with a new contract, earning more money and securing his continuity for six more years.
There has been a lot of speculation regarding whether Raúl Asencio would renew or not, but this has now been put to rest. The defender will remain for many more years at Real Madrid, with an improved contract and a first-team spot. What could change, however, is his role in the team, with Huijsen newly signed and Antonio Rüdiger fully recovered.