While the situation of young Spanish defender Raul Asensio has raised questions at Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti announced a significant update in a press conference on Saturday. This news will have a substantial impact on the remainder of the Madrid season.
Promoted to Real Madrid's first team a few weeks ago, Raul Asensio has come back down to earth. Brought in to replace the injured Eder Militao for the rest of the season, the central defender took advantage of the opportunity to play in high-stakes matches, including losses to Liverpool (2-0) and Athletic Bilbao (2-1).
While the excitement around the 21-year-old player was palpable, with some already comparing him to Sergio Ramos, Carlo Ancelotti caught everyone off guard by repositioning Aurélien Tchouaméni to central defense.
Ancelotti's Plan for Raul Asensio
Despite criticism, the Italian coach stood firm, putting the French midfielder in central defense and pushing Asensio to the bench. According to reports, Carlo Ancelotti has opted for Aurélien Tchouaméni, whom he considers better suited for central defense, in addition to his midfield duties, where players like Eduardo Camavinga or Federico Valverde can fill the role of a number 6.
Condemned to play a supporting role, the former Castilla player has been smiling again in recent days. In fact, well before the Intercontinental Cup final, which Real Madrid won 3-0 in Qatar, Carlo Ancelotti tested Raul Asensio as a right-back.
Given Lucas Vazquez's poor performances on the right side of the Madrid defense, the technical staff is considering repositioning the central defender. In a press conference on Saturday, to discuss the match against Sevilla (the last match of 2024), Ancelotti confirmed his intentions.
Asensio, the New Backup for Vazquez
Asked about the tactical adjustments he plans to make, Ancelotti revealed that he will no longer start or play Federico Valverde as a right-back to replace Lucas Vazquez. This situation benefits the young central defender, who sees a new opportunity to play and prove himself at Real Madrid's level.
"How do I assess the full-backs? Both full-backs have performed very well, Lucas Vázquez and Mendy. They have played many games and contributed to the team. I don't think I'll put Valverde in that position, except in case of an emergency. And we're testing Asensio, who has the characteristics to do it, although he's more of a defensive player than an attacking one," Carlo Ancelotti confessed to the media on Saturday.
With the announced adjustments and David Alaba's confirmed return, it's clear that Florentino Pérez won't make any signings in January, although the door remains open. Note that, according to our colleagues at the Madrid-based newspaper Marca, Raul Asensio's situation with Real Madrid's first team sends a clear message to the young players in the reserve team: "If you're a defender, you have a better chance of reaching the first team."