Spain manager praises breakout Real Madrid youngster – ‘He’s playing very well’

Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and the midfielders put on a stellar display at the Etihad Stadium, earning well-deserved praise for their performances. However, the real standout of the night was the defense, which deserves special recognition, particularly given the immense challenge posed by the absence of the team’s three primary defenders.

Aurelien Tchouaméni admirably adapted to an unfamiliar defensive role, but it was Raul Asencio who truly stole the spotlight. His composure, leadership, and commanding presence at the back showcased a level of maturity beyond his years, making him the unexpected hero of the match.

Spain’s National Team Coach Weighs In

Recently, Spanish national team manager Luis de la Fuente was asked about Raul Asencio’s meteoric rise at Real Madrid and the prospect of him breaking into the senior national team setup.

Acknowledging the young defender’s impressive form, De la Fuente expressed his admiration, stating, “He’s a fantastic player. He’s now getting regular minutes, which is crucial. His performance against Manchester City was particularly outstanding,” as quoted by El Desmarque.

Despite Asencio’s rapid progress, De la Fuente emphasized the fierce competition for a spot in La Roja’s defensive lineup. With talented young center-backs like Pau Cubarsí and Dean Huijsen also delivering strong performances, securing a place in the national squad remains a daunting challenge.

“Earning a call-up to the national team is no easy feat. There are exceptional players in every Spanish club,” he remarked.

However, excelling at a club of Real Madrid’s stature is impossible to overlook for long. If the 21-year-old continues his remarkable form and maintains his confidence, a senior national team debut could be on the horizon. That said, his potential call-up may also depend on the resolution of ongoing legal proceedings against him, a factor that could influence his international future.