Raul Asencio looks up to Real Madrid icon and former Barcelona captain for inspiration | OneFootball

Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio received his first-ever call-up to the Spanish national team for the upcoming UEFA Nations League quarter-final clashes against the Netherlands.

This marks a significant milestone in the young defender’s career, as he continues his rapid rise from Real Madrid Castilla to becoming a key figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s senior squad.

Inspired by legends: Ramos and Puyol

Asencio’s journey to the national team has been shaped by the influence of some of Spain’s greatest defenders.

He has always admired the leadership and defensive prowess of Sergio Ramos, recognising him as one of the finest centre-backs in both Real Madrid’s and Spain’s history.

“Sergio Ramos, in the end, has always been a role model for me. Everyone who loves football knows what he’s been, both with Real Madrid and with the Spanish national team. He’s a clear role model.”

Raul Asencio looks up to Sergio Ramos. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Alongside Ramos, he also looks up to former Barcelona captain Carles Puyol, known for his fearless defending and leadership on the pitch.

“There are many at the national level, like Carles Puyol. You look up to them and their style of play from a young age, and you start to pick out the virtues of each player,” he explained.

A dream come true

Having spent years working towards this moment, Asencio is now relishing the opportunity to represent Spain at the senior level. The call-up is not just a career highlight but a personal achievement that fills him with immense pride.

The young defender described this as a special and emotional moment, as it represents the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.

“I’m very happy and thrilled to be living this new experience. I want to try to live it to the fullest.

“I’ve dreamed of something like this ever since I was little, and being able to achieve it this way makes me incredibly proud and thrilled.”

A rapid rise to the top

Raul Asencio has made stunning progress this season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Asencio’s progress over the past few months has been nothing short of extraordinary. As recently as November, he was playing in the Primera RFEF with Real Madrid Castilla.

However, a combination of hard work, determination, and trust from Carlo Ancelotti saw him make the jump to the first team.

“You always think you can achieve something, but everything has indeed been very fast, very abrupt, and I’m adapting to all the situations I’m experiencing.

“Since you are a kid, you joked about what you can achieve, and now it’s happening.”

Mental strength and sacrifice

Reaching this level has required not just talent, but also a strong mentality. Asencio left his family and hometown at just 14 years old to join Real Madrid’s academy.

The move forced him to step out of his comfort zone, adapt to a new environment, and develop resilience.

“I’ve always considered myself a strong-minded person.

“Coming to Madrid at such a young age, at 14, separating myself from my family, all my friends, and what was really easy for me, the routine, made me stronger mentally.

“Having to come to a new environment, to new people, it has made me stronger mentally,” he added.

Now, with his first senior Spain call-up, Asencio is ready to embrace the challenge ahead and make his mark at the international level.

Source: Mundo Deportivo