Real Madrid defender clarifies ‘Ask Arbeloa’ comment over lack of game time | OneFootball

Earlier today, Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio briefly interacted with fans and media near the club’s training ground when he was asked about his recent absence from the team.

Asencio has not played for Real Madrid since the win over Celta Vigo, when he pushed himself to be available despite having been dealing with a neck injury.

He was benched in the first leg of the UCL Round of 16 against Manchester City and was then completely absent from the squad for three games – Elche, the second leg vs Man City, and the derby against Atletico Madrid – a consequence of an alleged argument with Alvaro Arbeloa.

Even though he was back in the squad against Mallorca and Bayern Munich this month, he did not play any minute.

So, when asked about the situation, the 23-year-old cryptically replied: “You should ask Arbeloa about that…,” indicating that there was still some tension between himself and the manager.

Asencio clarifies statement

With his response going viral on social media, Asencio has taken to X to clarify his statement and get a handle over the situation.

Suggesting that his comment was being blown out of proportions, the Real Madrid defender wrote:

“I don’t understand the fuss you all make about things.”

He then clarified that what he meant was that the manager decides who plays and that he fully respects Arbeloa as well as his teammates.

“The Manager is the one in charge, he puts the players in and takes them out. I have the utmost respect for him and all my teammates. Greetings to everyone and Hala Madrid!”

With Real Madrid likely to rotate against Girona tomorrow, it remains to be seen if Asencio gets a chance or whether Arbeloa continues to ignore the defender.