Reason why key Real Madrid defender is absent from squad list for Elche clash – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid are once again dealing with a serious squad shortage ahead of their La Liga match against Elche. 

The situation has become even more complicated after another late injury concern forced a change in the squad list.

According to journalist Miguel Angel Diaz, defender Raul Asencio has not been included in the matchday squad due to muscular discomfort. 

His absence increases the number of unavailable players for Real Madrid to ten, creating a major selection problem for manager Alvaro Arbeloa.

The omission of Asencio came as a surprise when the official squad list was announced. 

The defender had been expected to be part of the team, but his muscle issue forced the coaching staff to leave him out as a precaution.

A real trouble for Arbeloa

With this latest setback, Arbeloa will only have 14 first-team players available for the match against Elche.

The injury problems do not stop there. Real Madrid are already dealing with a long list of unavailable players who will miss the game for various reasons.

Raul Asencio will be unavailable against Elche. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Among them are defenders Eder Militao and David Alaba, both of whom have been struggling with injuries. 

Alvaro Carreras is also unavailable, while Ferland Mendy will miss the match as well.

In midfield, Real Madrid will be without Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos, both of whom are currently sidelined.

The attack has also been affected by the growing list of absentees. Rodrygo and Kylian Mbappe are unavailable due to injury, while young prospect Franco Mastantuono will miss the game due to suspension.

Because of these numerous absences, Arbeloa has turned to the youth academy for support, as several academy players have been included in the squad to help fill the gaps.

Among them is defender Diego Aguado, who could potentially be called upon if needed.

Midfielders Thiago Pitarch, Manuel Ángel, and Cesar Palacios have also been included in the squad.

Additionally, winger Daniel Yanez has received a call-up and could potentially make an appearance.