Following Real Madrid’s humbling 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup semi-finals, head coach Xabi Alonso has reportedly instructed club hierarchy to offload defender Raul Asencio before the summer transfer window closes.
Xabi Alonso urges Real Madrid to sell Raul Asencio after Club World Cup struggles
At just 22, Asencio was once viewed as a breakout talent. He amassed 46 appearances across competitions during the 2024–25 season, filling in admirably amid a rash of defensive injuries.
However, recent performances including a dismissal against Pachuca, another red card versus Al Hilal, and a costly error allowing PSG’s opener have made his position untenable.
Alonso, known for his exacting standards, praised the team’s intelligence after earlier rounds but subtly singled out Asencio’s lapses for tactical reevaluation.
At the post-match press conference following the PSG defeat, the coach said: “Today, we have suffered … there is a lot of margin,” signaling his intent to rebuild with more seasoned options.
Despite speculation linking Asencio to a long-term contract renewal in recent weeks, sources claim that it now appears likely he will be moved on.
Alonso is reportedly keen to bring in a new center-back, even after Dean Huijsen’s recent arrival, suggesting the squad still lacks stability at the back.
The contrast couldn’t be clearer: a defender once seen as the future now faces an uncertain immediate path—especially with a contract running until 2031 and a release clause rumoured to reach €1 billion.
The summer transfer window closes on August 31. Los Blancos are under pressure to reinforce quickly if they want to challenge on all fronts next season.
For Asencio, this may be a pivotal summer that determines whether he stays to fight for his place or departs in search of a fresh start.
