“Always very sure of himself” - Carlo Ancelotti names one Real Madrid star who has ‘surprised’ him this season
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that he has been pleasantly surprised by Raul Asencio's qualities. The Spanish defender has been thrust into action this season following Eder Militao's unfortunate injury last month.
Asencio was on the bench when the Brazilian ruptured his ACL against Osasuna in mid-November. The 21-year-old replaced Militao on the pitch and has held his place in the team since.
Asencio has started the last three games across competitions, helping Los Blancos pick up two wins. His performances have earned rave reviews and eased Real Madrid's recent defensive worries.
Speaking recently, as cited by Madrid Xtra, Ancelotti was full of praise for the youngster.
"If Raúl Asencio surprised me? Yes, he surprised me, his maturity, he's never worried, always very sure of himself. He's completely part of our team now, and he totally deserves it," said Ancelotti.
The Italian manager is also without David Alaba, who picked up an ACL injury last year and is yet to return. The Austrian isn't expected to be back before January, so Militao's injury is a huge setback for Los Blancos.
Asencio's emergence has steadied the ship. Despite the presence of Jesus Vallejo in the squad, Ancelotti has opted for the youngster and the move has paid off.
Interestingly, Vallejo has registered just one appearance for Real Madrid all season, racking up 10 minutes of first-team action. Asencio's emergence, as such, may have sealed the 27-year-old's future.
When are Real Madrid back in action?
Real Madrid return to action on Wednesday, December 4, when they face Athletic Bilbao in LaLiga. Carlo Ancelotti's men are second in the league table after 14 games, a point behind leaders Barcelona, but with a game in hand.
The Catalans are back in action against Mallorca in LaLiga on Tuesday, December 3. If Hansi Flick's team fail to secure a win, the reigning champions could go to the top of the table by picking up three points against Bilbao.
Real Madrid have been in decent form this season so far in the league. The LaLiga champions have won 10 of their 14 games and lost just once, against Barcelona at home.
They have scored 30 goals and conceded just 11 in the league so far. However, Los Blancos have been poor in the Champions League, losing three of their five games. Real Madrid lost 2-0 away to Liverpool last week, and are 24th in the Champions League table.