Falling from grace – Real Madrid youngster drops from starter to fourth choice in no time | OneFootball

When Raul Asencio first stepped into the Real Madrid first team under Carlo Ancelotti in the 2024/25 campaign, optimism around Castilla talent was reignited.

The young defender impressed in his opening games, displaying confidence and authority that reminded many supporters of Sergio Ramos.

For a brief period, it seemed like Real Madrid had unearthed another defensive leader capable of shaping the future. However, the reality a few months later is very different.

The Club World Cup debacle

Asencio’s progress came crashing down during the FIFA Club World Cup.

In matches against Pachuca and PSG, his errors were heavily punished, and the spotlight quickly turned against him.

What followed was a dramatic fall down the squad order. Once considered a starter, Asencio is now a fourth-choice centre-back, only ahead of David Alaba, whose form and fitness have also been questioned.

Raul Asencio is yet to play in La Liga this season. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Eder Militao’s strong return to action further sealed Asencio’s decline. The Brazilian has looked sharp in his first appearances back from injury, leaving little room for Asencio to recover lost ground.

Uncertain future under Xabi Alonso

With Xabi Alonso taking charge, there were hopes of a fresh chance for Asencio. Yet, the new manager appears unconvinced about his defensive depth.

Names like Ibrahima Konate and William Saliba were explored as possible reinforcements, showing that trust in the current centre-backs remains low.

While those signings never materialised, it has not changed the fact that Asencio’s standing at the club is fragile.

Offers for the defender did arrive, but he refused to leave, determined to fight for his place after earning a first-team shirt number.

That determination will now be tested. In the opening three La Liga fixtures, he has not featured for a single minute, and signs suggest his situation will not improve quickly.