José Mourinho has named his Real Madrid squad for Saturday’s La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano, with defender Raúl Asencio returning after more than a month out through injury.
Asencio Back After Injury Layoff
Asencio has been included in a Real Madrid matchday squad for the first time under Mourinho. The Spanish defender had been sidelined for around six weeks with a muscle injury to his rectus femoris, followed by a setback involving his shin bone.
He has not yet played a competitive match under Mourinho, but his return to full training in the days leading up to the Rayo Vallecano fixture has earned him a place in the squad.
Defensive Cover for a Busy Schedule
Asencio’s comeback gives Mourinho an additional option in central defence as Real Madrid face a congested run of La Liga fixtures, including midweek matches.
A Turbulent Summer
The return closes a difficult summer for the young defender. He had been close to leaving the club, but the injury halted any move regarding his future.
Off the pitch, Asencio was recently cleared in a case related to a video in which he was involved. At the same time, he was convicted of driving under the influence on Gran Canaria in August.
Mourinho previously expressed his anger at Asencio’s conduct, saying: “A Real Madrid player remains a Real Madrid player 24 hours a day. What you do outside the club can harm your reputation and the club’s, and I am not happy.”
Now, with his fitness restored, Asencio’s focus returns to football, with a desire to prove himself and earn an opportunity under Mourinho.
Continued Absences
Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo remain unavailable for Real Madrid.
Real Madrid Squad
- Goalkeepers: Courtois, Lunin, Sergio Mestre.
- Defenders: Asencio, Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, Cucurella, Carreras, Rüdiger, Dumfries.
- Midfielders: Bellingham, Camavinga, Valverde, Tchouaméni, Arda Güler, Bernardo Silva, Thiago Pitarch.
- Forwards: Vinícius, Endrick, Mbappé, Espi, Brahim Díaz, Diomande.