Spain manager Luis de la Fuente made a heartfelt admission to young Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio this Sunday after La Roja’s hard-fought victory over the Netherlands.
A true revelation in Spain in recent months, Raúl Asencio earned his first call-up to the national team just four months after making his professional debut. Now an indispensable player for Real Madrid, the 22-year-old defender was selected by Luis de la Fuente for the first international break of 2025. Despite fierce competition, Madrid supporters were confident that their young talent would either start or at least get some minutes in Spain’s two matches against the Netherlands. However, the manager took everyone by surprise.
Luis de la Fuente’s words to Asencio
Against all expectations, it was 19-year-old Dean Huijsen, who plays for Bournemouth, who was given a chance by the manager. Although he was initially called up as a replacement for Barcelona’s Iñigo Martínez, who had to withdraw due to injury, Huijsen ended up playing more than 165 minutes. Meanwhile, Raúl Asencio, who was originally selected ahead of him, did not play a single second. In the first leg in Rotterdam, the 22-year-old Madrid defender was not even included in the squad list submitted to UEFA, and in the return leg on Sunday, he remained on the bench.
At the end of the two-legged tie, which Spain won on penalties, Asencio did not hide his joy. Smiling from ear to ear, the Real Madrid defender showed no signs of frustration, which likely left an impression on the Spanish manager. As reported by Defensa Central, Luis de la Fuente immediately approached the 22-year-old star on the pitch after the final whistle to apologise and praise his professionalism. “You are a fantastic player and a great person. I’m sorry you didn’t make your debut, but you will certainly get more opportunities,” he reportedly told him.
No worries for Raúl
According to reports, Raúl Asencio remained composed and smiling after his conversation with the manager. The truth is, being called up to the national team is already a huge achievement, as only the best players earn that honour. Unlike Huijsen, who made his professional debut in 2023 and has more experience, the Real Madrid youngster has not even spent six months at the top level. However, his selection for the first international break of the year is a recognition that should not be overlooked.
To earn his first cap for La Roja, Asencio will need to continue performing at Real Madrid and remain in the spotlight. He will most likely return to the squad and represent his country in the future. In any case, Asencio’s lack of game time for Spain might actually be good news for Carlo Ancelotti, who will have him back in peak condition. Unlike Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba, who played for their national teams and are likely fatigued, the 22-year-old sensation will return to training at 100% fitness.
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