Raúl Asencio has been in the spotlight all season, both for his performance on the field and for personal matters, something that still needs to be solved. Focusing on the sporting side, the defender has been climbing the ranks and ended up becoming an important figure for Carlo Ancelotti. The former coach gave him the chance to shine due to injuries, and the academy graduate replied in the best possible way.
He made a strong debut with the first team and the fans have always been on his side, something the defender has expressed his gratitude for on several occasions. Real Madrid is going through a somewhat delicate process and Xabi Alonso is mainly responsible for making sure things go well. After a few matches in his new position, he has realized that Carlo Ancelotti was right and Raúl Asencio will be negatively affected.
Xabi Alonso and the possible problem for Raúl Asencio
Xabi Alonso is a great coach and he showed it by leading Bayer Leverkusen to a championship, with the Spaniard on the bench. He was applauded by the entire soccer world and, despite his limited experience, he gave his best. A year ago, there were already rumors about his possible arrival at Real Madrid, but he believed it was not the right time yet.
This year, Carlo Ancelotti has not been able to make Real Madrid a champion team and the board has decided to let him go. Even so, there were things he did well and Xabi Alonso will take advantage of the results achieved by the former manager. In this case, Raúl Asencio could end up on the bench, especially after his poor performances.
Raúl Asencio did not play against Salzburg in the Club World Cup due to a red card. Xabi Alonso tried a three-man defense. Huijsen, Rüdiger, and Tchouaméni played, something Carlo Ancelotti had already tried last season. The Italian thought it was a good idea to move the holding midfielder and it ended up working well, just as it has for Xabi.
Xabi Alonso's new approach
Xabi Alonso followed Carlo Ancelotti's lead and moved Tchouaméni to defense, which ended up working well. Given this situation and Raúl Asencio's poor performances lately, the Spaniard could be facing a tough outcome. The next matches will be relevant for the future of the newcomer to the first team.
Xabi Alonso is clear that he wants what's best for the team and he won't allow anyone to ruin it. As the months go by, we'll find out what ends up happening with Raúl Asencio.