Raúl Asencio is a clear example of resilience. Since making his Real Madrid debut under Carlo Ancelotti against Osasuna two seasons ago, following Éder Militão’s serious injury, the defender has repeatedly risen to the challenge. On that occasion, he provided Bellingham with a 45-meter assist and showed that, alongside his speed and decisiveness at center-back, he also possesses an excellent passing range from the back.

Asencio went on to make 46 appearances that season and earned a call-up to Luis de la Fuente’s Spain squad. However, his progress was disrupted last season by a series of injuries, including a broken nose, a head injury and, most significantly, a tibia fracture that never fully healed. Despite those problems, he continued to make himself available, playing several matches while carrying an injury until Rüdiger and Militão returned.

Following Mourinho’s arrival, the club’s decision to sign Konaté appeared to open the door for Asencio’s departure. However, the defender from Gran Canaria made his intentions clear after returning from vacation, determined to convince the Portuguese coach through commitment and hard work.

Mourinho’s coaching staff were impressed by Asencio’s discipline and dedication in training. His intense work eventually contributed to a muscle injury that ruled him out of the final four preseason matches and the league opener in Cornellà.

Asencio has since accelerated his recovery through additional work in the gym, with physiotherapists and rehabilitation specialists, bringing his return forward by around a week. On Monday, he took part in part of the group training session at Valdebebas, with the plan for him to fully rejoin the team by Thursday.

If his recovery continues as planned, Asencio could be available for selection for next Sunday’s match against Málaga at the Bernabéu.

The main issue he continues to manage is the tibia fracture. For now, Asencio plans to continue with conservative treatment in an effort to avoid surgery. He was fitted with special boots a week ago, which have significantly reduced his pain.

The defender would only consider surgery if the problem worsens in the coming months, but he has not set any deadline for making that decision.

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