Real Madrid defender’s response when asked about recent absence from team – ‘Ask Arbeloa’ | OneFootball

Over the past month or so, Raul Asencio has lost prominence in the Real Madrid side under Alvaro Arbeloa.

The 23-year-old La Fabrica graduate has fallen behind the fit-again Antonio Rudiger, Dean Huijsen, and the recently-returned Eder Militao in the pecking order, leading to very limited presence on the field.

In fact, prior to the international break, the Spanish defender went a few games without even being included in the squad list – with the belief being that it was because of a disagreement with manager Arbeloa.

Raul Asencio on why he has not been playing

Earlier today, when Asencio arrived at Valdebebas for the training session, he was asked by the media present why he had not been playing at all in recent weeks.

As caught by the El Chiringuito cameras, the Real Madrid defender replied: “You should ask Arbeloa about that….”

This response seems to hint at tension existing between the player and the manager.

What’s going on with Asencio and Arbeloa?

As mentioned above, Asencio and Arbeloa were involved in an argument last month.

The defender felt aggrieved over being benched for the game vs Manchester City, days after he had made the effort to be available against Celta Vigo while dealing with a neck injury. It led to Asencio confronting Arbeloa over the decision.

The situation escalated not long after when the centre-back asked not to play against Elche on the day of the match due to discomfort. This did not sit well with the manager who had plans to rest Antonio Rudiger, who himself was not happy with the development.

Asencio apologised to Arbeloa for questioning his decision, but refused to do so to the dressing room, leading to his disappearance from the squad for a few matches.

Ultimately, he issued an apology in the locker room as well and was back in the squad vs Mallorca and Bayern Munich, although he did not get any minutes in either match. Now, his response suggests that the problem might not be resolved fully.