Involved in a scuffle at the end of the semi-final of the 2025 Spanish Super Cup between Real Madrid and Mallorca on Thursday, Raúl Asensio made a lasting impression. While the Madrid faithful remain captivated by the character of the 21-year-old defender, Carlo Ancelotti has also been impressed.
A new addition to Real Madrid’s first team since November 2024, Raúl Asensio is doing everything to win hearts. Having made more than convincing debuts for Carlo Ancelotti’s side following Eder Militão’s serious injury against Osasuna (which marked the end of his season), the young Spanish defender experienced a dip in form with the return of Aurélien Tchouaméni, who was repositioned as a central defender. Deemed too young to handle the pressure and demands of top-level football, the 21-year-old was relegated to the bench and condemned to a substitute role since December.
However, since the beginning of 2025, Raúl Asensio has gradually returned to the spotlight. Indeed, after an impressive cameo against Valencia, followed by a solid performance against Deportiva Minera in the Copa del Rey, the young prodigy delivered another outstanding performance against Mallorca in the 2025 Spanish Super Cup last Thursday in Saudi Arabia. In this intense match, Asensio dominated all his opponents in duels. At the end of the game, he did not hesitate to confront Maffeo, the Mallorca defender who appears to have a grudge against Vinícius Júnior.
The good news for Raúl Asensio
Immediately hailed by Madrid fans for his strong character displayed against Maffeo in defence of his elder teammate Vinícius Júnior, the 21-year-old defender earned points with Carlo Ancelotti. While the Italian coach stated to the press after the 3-0 victory that he would have preferred no altercation at the end of the match, he particularly appreciated Asensio’s gesture, which once again proved that he has the courage and personality to stake his claim. As if to say he is a leader despite his youth, Raúl has firmly established himself at the top level.
With trends indicating that he will be offered a contract extension at the end of the season, along with a pay rise to continue his ascent within Real Madrid’s first team, the central defender, compared to Sergio Ramos, appears to be a key part of Ancelotti’s plans, according to Relevo. While the club is considering bolstering the defence, Raúl Asensio’s performances clearly demonstrate that Real Madrid no longer needs to recruit a central defender. For the remainder of the season, the youngster will have a pivotal role to play in the team.
Without a doubt, Real Madrid has effortlessly gained a new player who is set to make headlines in the press and attract significant attention in the coming years. In any case, he has erased any doubts about his talent, personality, and ambitions.
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