Raul Asencio is trying hard to get a place at Real Madrid
June 26, 2026 · Global
Raul Asencio is determined to secure his place at Real Madrid by training intensively over the summer, seeking to impress Jose Mourinho amidst strong competition in the defender position.
Raul Asencio is preparing for what could be a defining summer in his young career. The 23-year-old academy player remains determined to fight for a place at Real Madrid despite facing stiff competition at the back. Asencio is working "like an animal" to convince Jose Mourinho that he can be a valuable asset amid rumors of a possible departure.
New signing Ibrahima Konate, recently extended contract Antonio Rudiger, returning Eder Militao and highly regarded Dean Huijsen all appear to be ahead of Asencio in Mourinho's plans. The club is also continuing to monitor the market for another experienced centre-back, with Alessandro Bastoni emerging as top choice following Nico Schlotterbeck's injury and Josko Gvardiol's high fee.
For many academy players, conditions like this can encourage them to look for other clubs to get more regular playing time. Former Castilla players such as Jacobo Ramon, Mario Gila, Rafa Marin and Victor Chust have all chosen that path. However, Asencio had no intention of leaving. Since Real Madrid's last La Liga match against Athletic Club on May 23, Asencio has spent his holidays at his home in Gran Canaria. However, his summer was far from relaxing. Instead of enjoying the island's beaches, the defender spends most of his time training under the guidance of a personal fitness trainer.
According to those close to him, he has been working with extraordinary intensity all summer. Those who know him describe his commitment as being on another level, claiming they have never seen him train so hard during the summer holidays. Real Madrid have asked super-agent Jorge Mendes to inform the club of any significant bid for Asencio, so they can consider a possible transfer. However, the defender is not interested in exploring other opportunities. The main goal is to convince Mourinho that he deserves a place in next season's squad.
With a contract that runs until 2031, Asencio feels there is no urgency to find a way out. Instead, he wants to prove that he can contribute to Real Madrid and establish himself in the first team's scheme of things. Asencio is expected to report to Valdebebas on July 13 as Real Madrid begin pre-season preparations under Mourinho. The next few weeks could determine the next stage of his career. Despite increasing competition for places, graduates of the academy remain fully committed to getting their foot in the door. The final decision is in Mourinho's hands.