Real Madrid’s upcoming rebuild under Jose Mourinho is expected to bring major changes across the squad, especially in defence.
New signings are likely to arrive, veteran players are heading towards the exit door, and several uncertain futures are slowly becoming clearer behind the scenes.
One of the names now benefiting from that shift is Raul Asencio, reports AS.
Only a few months ago, the academy graduate’s long-term future at the club appeared far from guaranteed.
Injuries, internal tensions and falling out of favour had placed him in a difficult position during one of the most frustrating periods of his young career.
Now, however, the situation has changed dramatically to the extent that he would gladly inherit the iconic number 4 shirt that David Alaba will leave behind.
Asencio’s future could be secured under Mourinho. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
The expected arrival of Mourinho has strengthened Asencio’s standing, with the Portuguese coach said to be a strong admirer of the defender’s aggressive playing style and physical approach on the pitch.
Difficult season for Asencio
It is known that Real Madrid are preparing for a major defensive reshuffle this summer.
Alaba’s departure has already been confirmed, while concerns continue surrounding the physical condition of other senior defenders, such as Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger in the squad.
Those circumstances are now creating fresh opportunities for the La Fabrica defender.
Asencio’s season has been complicated from the beginning. Several injuries disrupted his rhythm and prevented him from building on the strong momentum he had generated the previous year.
Asencio could inherit the number 4 shirt. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Matters became even more difficult following tensions with Alvaro Arbeloa, which damaged his place in the manager’s plans for a significant period.
Still, the defender never completely disappeared from the picture.
There is hope under Mourinho
Despite all that, Mourinho values several aspects of his profile, particularly his intensity in duels, physical competitiveness and ability to play direct long passes from deep areas.
The Portuguese coach has historically preferred defenders with aggression over purely technical profiles, which may explain why Asencio is now viewed differently inside the club.
With Alaba leaving and defensive depth becoming increasingly fragile, Asencio’s importance has quietly grown.
The player himself has also made his intentions clear to the club that, despite the difficult months he endured, he wants to remain part of Real Madrid’s long-term project.