Raul Asencio: the scary news about the 22-year-old after Celta Vigo

Real Madrid may have secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday, but the win came with a dose of anxiety and concern—especially regarding the condition of young center-back Raul Asencio. The 22-year-old, who has been thrust into the spotlight due to the club’s defensive injury crisis, was substituted after just an hour on the pitch, prompting questions from fans and pundits alike.

In a game that saw Los Blancos cruise to a comfortable 3-0 lead before the hour mark, the sudden substitution of Asencio marked a turning point. The defense wobbled in his absence, conceding two goals and nearly collapsing under pressure. Real Madrid narrowly held on, but the sight of Asencio walking off sparked widespread speculation.

During the post-match press conference, Carlo Ancelotti clarified the situation, revealing that the defender was simply exhausted. “The match seemed under control,” Ancelotti said. “We were ahead 3-0 and even had chances to score a fourth through Güler. But Raul couldn’t continue. He was very tired and asked to be taken off. That change complicated things because we were already missing six defenders. We had no way to replace that stability.”

The Italian coach’s comments offered some reassurance, but further details released by Spanish outlet Diario AS on Monday morning painted a much graver picture. According to their report, Asencio had been severely ill in the days leading up to the match. The young defender reportedly suffered from diarrhea, vomiting, and poor sleep over two consecutive nights before kickoff.

Despite his fragile state, Asencio informed the coaching staff of his desire to start. With Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Éder Militão, and other defenders sidelined due to injury, the former Castilla graduate knew he was the only remaining option in central defense. Driven by sheer commitment, he told Ancelotti that he would play “until he could no longer stand.”

The consequences of that decision were visible on the field. Though he started well and helped Real Madrid build a dominant lead, his body eventually gave out. Around the 60th minute, visibly drained and pale, Asencio signaled to the bench. Jacobo Ramon, a youth player with no La Liga experience, had to step in—a substitution that nearly cost Madrid the game.

This revelation stirred both sympathy and admiration across the Madrid fanbase. Asencio’s decision to put his health on the line for the team highlighted the level of sacrifice players at the club are willing to make, especially during crucial stages of the season.

The situation becomes even more concerning when considering the broader defensive crisis Real Madrid is currently navigating. Rüdiger has been dealing with knee issues for months, and Alaba is still recovering from a long-term injury. Militão is also unavailable, and Nacho is suspended. The defense has been held together by makeshift lineups, and Sunday’s scare underlined the fragility of Madrid’s current situation.

Asencio’s case mirrors that of other Madrid warriors. Jude Bellingham, for instance, has continued to feature regularly despite shoulder pain that dates back several months. Similarly, Rüdiger delayed surgery to remain available during the season’s peak, a decision that eventually forced him to the operating table after the Copa del Rey final.

These examples show a pattern—players pushing themselves beyond physical limits to uphold the club’s legacy. It’s a testament to the culture instilled at Real Madrid, where players embrace the pressure and responsibility that come with wearing the white jersey.

Ancelotti’s handling of Asencio’s situation also raises questions about squad management. Should a 22-year-old battling illness have been allowed to start? Could an emergency signing or defensive reshuffle have helped? These are the kinds of decisions that define a season, especially when the title race is so tight.

As it stands, Barcelona remains four points ahead of Madrid in the La Liga standings. The two sides are set to clash in a highly anticipated El Clásico next weekend, a match that could very well determine the outcome of the league. Real Madrid, battered and bruised, must regroup quickly—and that means getting Asencio back to full health.

Reports indicate that Asencio will be closely monitored over the next few days. The club medical team is optimistic that with rest and proper care, he will recover in time for the showdown against Barcelona. Given the stakes, his presence could be critical.

Fans across social media have rallied around Asencio, flooding his pages with support and appreciation. Many consider his commitment heroic, even labeling him a “true Madridista” for prioritizing the club’s needs over his own wellbeing.

Ancelotti, known for his calm leadership, now faces one of his most difficult tactical tests this season. With options in defense limited, he must decide whether to risk another incomplete backline or experiment with an unproven setup.

Regardless of what happens next, one thing is clear: Raul Asencio has earned the respect of his teammates and supporters. His sacrifice might not appear on the scoresheet, but it symbolizes the grit and spirit that Real Madrid will need in the weeks ahead.

As the Clasico approaches and the final stretch of the La Liga campaign begins, all eyes will be on Raul Asencio—not just to recover, but to rise again. In a season where injuries and adversity have tested the very fabric of the squad, his resilience is a shining example of what it means to fight for the badge.

Let’s hope the coming days bring good news about his condition. Because if there’s one thing Madrid can’t afford right now, it’s to lose another soldier on the field.