Raúl Asencio earns a spot in Real Madrid’s first-team squad for the 2025/26 season
22-year-old defender will play under Xabi Alonso after initial breakthrough under Ancelotti
Real Madrid have formally registered Raúl Asencio as a first-team player for the 2025/26 La Liga season, confirming the 22-year-old defender’s promotion from the club’s academy. The move comes after a year of intermittent appearances that began under Carlo Ancelotti and now continue with Xabi Alonso, who reportedly sees Asencio as a permanent part of the senior squad.
The update was first reported by Marca and reflects the club’s intention to strengthen its defensive depth ahead of a long and competitive season.
From Castilla to Bernabéu: Asencio’s rise and comparisons to Ramos
Asencio was originally promoted from Real Madrid Castilla last season when the club suffered a string of defensive injuries. His aggressive style and leadership qualities quickly drew comparisons to club legend Sergio Ramos.
Despite some early setbacks, including a penalty conceded and red card in the Club World Cup, both the board and technical staff have decided to retain the young defender. According to club sources, the decision was made not just based on his potential, but on squad needs for the coming season.
Shirt number likely to change following promotions and departures
As per La Liga regulations, professional players must wear jersey numbers between 1 and 25. Asencio previously wore number 35, but with Lucas Vázquez and Kepa Arrizabalaga leaving the club, the #17 and #25 shirts are now available.
There is also speculation around the #9 shirt, as Kylian Mbappé is expected to take Luka Modrić’s number 10 following the Croatian’s transfer to Milan.
Real Madrid stick with Asencio despite Club World Cup struggles
Asencio’s early 2025 performances were far from ideal. In the Club World Cup, he gave away a penalty, was sent off against Pachuca, and missed a crucial opportunity in the 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, which knocked Madrid out of the tournament.
Nevertheless, Xabi Alonso and the club’s management have expressed long-term confidence in Asencio’s development, underlining the belief in his ability to mature into a reliable squad member.
