Real Madrid defensive ace revives his career after horror campaign in FIFA Club World Cup | OneFootball

Raul Asencio was perhaps not the best of performers for Real Madrid during the early summer’s FIFA Club World Cup tournament.

The young defender simply couldn’t get going and was outshone by new signing Dean Huijsen, who has become the club’s standout player this season.

His poor FIFA Club World Cup campaign, coupled with a slow start to the season, led many to believe that his days at Santiago Bernabeu could be numbered.

However, it is the injury of the same Huijsen that may have now opened the door for Asencio to once again make a mark at Real Madrid.

Asencio’s brilliant revival this season

As reported by MARCA, the young centre-back is once again starting to win the trust of new coach Xabi Alonso, who has been ruthless at times with his team selection this season.

Once under intense scrutiny, Asencio now reconnected with the traits that first helped him make a mark at the Bernabeu – his speed, decisiveness, and fearless personality on the pitch.

Raul Asencio has noticeably improved since the start of the season. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Inside the dressing room, too, Asencio has earned deep respect for his humility and tireless work ethic, qualities that have made him a valued presence among his teammates.

Even after the World Cup setback and despite Dean Huijsen’s rise and Militao’s return, Asencio refused to let his confidence dip.

Instead, he channelled his frustration into relentless daily work, staying prepared for when the opportunity came again. He was always ready to come in handy for his team, as evidenced by the number of times the defender operated at right-back.

However, the job is half done so far. WIth Real Madrid considering significant defensive reinforcements in 2026, Asencio must step up his performances even further if he is to retain a starting role in the team for the foreseeable future.