Former Defender, Pepe (42) Reveals the Only Thing He Cares About Raúl Asencio

Back in Madrid last weekend, where he was named an honorary member of the Peña Ramón Mendoza, Pepe opened up about the state of Carlo Ancelotti’s team, especially players like Raúl Asencio. A former central defender by trade, the Portuguese was very enthusiastic.

Retired since last summer after Euro 2024 with Portugal, Képler Laveran Lima Ferreira, better known as Pepe, is taking advantage of his free time to participate in prestigious events. After his 23-year professional career, including ten years at Real Madrid (2007-2017, 334 games for 15 goals), the defender, known for his aggressive interventions and rough behavior on the pitch, intends to embark on other activities. While waiting to get involved, he responds to the invitations of the Madrileños for honorary events such as the one last Saturday, where he was named an honorary member of the Peña Ramón Mendoza.

Pepe’s Confidences.

During this luncheon, Pepe granted a brief moment to the newspaper AS. Like most former Real Madrid players, the 42-year-old Portuguese reaffirmed his Madrid attachment. “I have always felt this affection. From the first day, when I started in 2007, until today. Everywhere I went, even in other countries, people had a kind word for me. I am grateful to the club for the moments it offered me as a footballer. And now, after my retirement, I still feel like a member of this great club,” he initially stated.

Pressed on the current form of Carlo Ancelotti’s team, which isn’t shining brightly, Pepe believes that everything remains possible regarding the conquest of titles at this end of the season. “The team is doing well, still alive on all three fronts. Madrid will always fight until the last minute in all three competitions.” As a former central defender who proved himself there, the native of Maceió did not escape the question regarding the Madrid revelation of the moment: Raúl Asencio.

Pepe Rejoices in Raúl Asencio’s High Degree of Desire.

Dithyrambic about the 22-year-old, Pepe indicates that the latter possesses an enormous desire that will contribute greatly to the Madrid team. “Asencio? He is a very motivated young man. He has desire and many qualities. He will contribute a lot, as he already does, to the conquest of Real Madrid’s titles.” According to the former Portuguese international, the idea of coming out of retirement and returning to lend a hand to the team, which has significant defensive problems this season, never crossed his mind.

“Did I think at any point in the season about coming to help with the defensive problems? No, no. Real Madrid is a team that, in difficult moments, always finds a solution. Now, Asencio has appeared, and it has been beneficial for us, for the team, for the club, and also for the Spanish national team. He is doing a good job,” the legendary partner of Sergio Ramos calmly stated.

It must be said that Raúl Asencio indeed shows a monstrous desire with each appearance on the pitch. While other defenders, perhaps exhausted by the rhythm of matches, relax from time to time, the young native of Las Palmas shines every time he plays. With his speed and calmness, he severely impacts the attackers and brings defensive ease to the White House. It is for these reasons that Florentino Pérez is changing his status to a key player in the group with a large salary. At this end of the season, he will be very useful in the big decisive matches.

Pepe’s enthusiasm for Raúl Asencio testifies to the young defender’s positive impact on the team. His attitude, talent, and desire to succeed have made him a key player for Real Madrid.

Pepe’s experience as a former top-level central defender allows him to accurately assess a player’s qualities. His praise of Asencio underscores the young player’s importance to the team.

Real Madrid, with its history and ambition, has always known how to attract and develop young talent. Raúl Asencio fits into this tradition.

The competition for starting positions at Real Madrid is fierce. Young players must demonstrate determination and talent to establish themselves.

Raúl Asencio has seized his chance and established himself as an essential element of the team. His journey is an example for other young players at the club.

Raúl Asencio’s future at Real Madrid looks promising. He has the potential to become one of the best central defenders in the world.

Real Madrid fans are eager to see Raúl Asencio continue to progress and shine in the white jersey. They hope he will contribute to many successes for the club.

Real Madrid, with its history and ambition, is always seeking excellence. Young players like Raúl Asencio have the opportunity to grow and develop in a stimulating environment.

The end of the season promises to be filled with emotions for Real Madrid. Fans hope the team can achieve its goals and win titles.