Raul Asencio’s story this season is one of quiet redemption and personal pride.
Not long ago, he became a forgotten figure, pushed to the margins after a disastrous Club World Cup campaign that left serious doubts over his future.
Nowhere near the starting XI, the youth team defender looked like a player destined to fade away. Instead, he chose the hardest path possible and fought his way back.
A tough nut to crack
Real Madrid’s defensive crisis became his unexpected opportunity, as injuries ravaged the back line, and uncertainty forced the staff to look deeper into the squad.
When the door finally opened, Asencio offered himself fully to the team.
His approach was similar to that of Antonio Rudiger – a defender moulded by toughness, personality, and a refusal to back down.
As such, the start of 2026 marked a turning point. Asencio scored his first Real Madrid goal against Betis.
Raul Asencio put on a solid performance against Real Madrid. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
His form improved steadily, and by the time the Spanish Super Cup arrived, he travelled with confidence.
In the Super Cup semi-final against Atletico Madrid, Asencio delivered a composed and disciplined performance, something that affirmed his place in the final against Barcelona.
A Clasico, a final, the pressure of a title on the line, but Asencio did not hide. He competed for every ball with total commitment and embraced a role Real Madrid have been missing for years.
Whenever tensions rose, he stepped forward. A timely shout, a commanding gesture, or a crucial defensive action, he brought order.
Real Madrid left Saudi Arabia without the trophy, but Asencio emerged with something equally important – certainty. He proved he belongs.
In a team short of on-field leaders and missing the presence once provided by figures like Sergio Ramos, Asencio showed character that resonates deeply with the fanbase.
