Real Madrid News
Real Madrid midfielder offers support to Raul Asencio in time of need – ‘You saved us many times’
Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio has come under heavy criticism following a shaky start to the FIFA Club World Cup.
The 22-year-old, once hailed as the future of both Los Blancos and the Spanish national team, has seen his stock fall dramatically in recent weeks.
Asencio’s troubles began in Real Madrid’s tournament opener against Al-Hilal, where he conceded a costly penalty.
Things only worsened in the next match against Pachuca, where he received a red card, leaving his team down to ten men. Despite the setback, Madrid managed to grind out a 3-1 win, but Asencio’s performance raised serious concerns.
From future star to under pressure
Just months ago, Asencio was seen as a breakout star under Carlo Ancelotti during the 2024/25 season. His calmness on the ball, aerial ability, and composure in defence had placed him firmly in the plans of both club and country.
However, a series of costly mistakes and the rapid emergence of Dean Huijsen have now pushed him down the pecking order.
The arrival of Huijsen has further complicated his position, with the Dutch-Spanish defender now preferred in Spain’s national team setup.
Nos salvaste muchas veces, y sé que seguirás haciéndolo. Vamos 🙌🏼🤍
— Fede Valverde (@fedeevalverde) June 23, 2025
At club level, the impending return of Antonio Rudiger and 4der Militao from injury threatens to relegate Asencio to the bench, if not completely out of the matchday squad.
Recognising the weight of the situation, Asencio took to social media to apologise:
“It has not been the desired start to the competition, but I have no doubt that we can turn the situation around. It is time to work even harder to keep growing. Thank you all for your messages.”
Valverde offers support
Amid the criticism, one voice of support came from teammate Federico Valverde. The Uruguayan midfielder posted a message backing Asencio, writing:
“You saved us many times, and I know you will continue to do so. Let’s go.”
It is clear that Asencio still holds respect within the dressing room, but with competition heating up, he will need to respond quickly and convincingly if he wants to regain the faith of the fans and coaching staff.
The pressure is on, but at 22, time is still on his side.
One of the main objectives for Real Madrid this summer was to bring in a new central midfielder capable of controlling the tempo and dictating the play from the middle.
A move for Rodri was in the works before the Spain captain decided to sign for FC Barcelona. The Merengues assessed several other options, but ended up not signing any player, with Jose Mourinho deciding to use Bernardo Silva in the double pivot.
One of the midfielders that Real Madrid were looking at as an option was Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
The England international has been on the club’s radar for a while now, but the Premier League club never opened the door for a summer departure.
Wharton could be on the market in 2027
However, now, according to The Guardian (h/t Bernabeu Digital), That stance could change next year, as that Palace would be prepared to consider selling Wharton during the next summer transfer window.
As mentioned already, Real Madrid have closely followed Wharton’s situation throughout the summer, although the club ultimately decided against making any further additions to their midfield.
Manchester City and Chelsea also showed serious interest in signing the England international during the summer. However, Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell, effectively ruling out a move for the midfielder.
But it appears that they could open the doors for Wharton to leave in the summer of 2027, potentially paving the way for Real Madrid to make a move.
Real Madrid continue to monitor Wharton
Real Madrid are expected to keep a close eye on Wharton’s progress ahead of the 2027 market. Should they decide they need another high-quality midfielder, the 22-year-old could once again emerge as a candidate.
Manchester City may be less likely to return for Wharton after strengthening their midfield significantly this summer.
Chelsea, however, could remain a potential competitor after failing to add a player in the position during the latest window.
For now, Wharton will remain at Crystal Palace, but the club’s willingness to consider a sale next summer means the midfielder could become a realistic option for Real Madrid in 2027.
