Real Madrid News
Real Madrid winger wants to achieve two key targets this season
Since becoming the coach of the Spanish national team, Luis Enrique has made it clear that he will do things his way. Form and numbers do not matter as long as the players can fit the bill for his style of play.
He has tried to implement a controlled JDP system with the team, in line with the same philosophy Barcelona have used for so many years. As such, it has never been surprising to see him nitpick players with more technical prowess than others.
Consequently, he has come under heavy scrutiny from Real Madrid fans who believe he is biased against their players.
Ahead of the UEFA Nations League fixtures this week, though, Lucho announced his squad featuring two Madrid stars – Daniel Carvajal and Marco Asensio. While the former’s inclusion is quite straightforward given his good form so far this season, the latter’s is quite surprising.
When asked about the inclusion of Asensio, among others like Ferran Torres and Jordi Alba, who have not quite played as many minutes, Enrique said:
“Clubs play many games. I trust a lot in what they offer. I must not lose confidence because they haven’t played for their clubs in a short space of time. They will play again.”
Evidently, he believes that Asensio can be an integral part of his team even if he continues to not feature for Los Blancos regularly. With that in mind, MARCA have reported that the winger has two goals in mind as of now.
Firstly, he wants to change his status at Real Madrid. Currently, he sits behind Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, Federico Valverde, and possibly even Eden Hazard in the pecking order for Carlo Ancelotti.
He has lost a bit of his faith with the fans as well when he threw a fit on the bench against RCD Mallorca for not getting substituted on. Eventually, he scored against RB Leipzig, and apologised to the Santiago Bernabeu for his actions.
Secondly, Asensio wants to remain a part of the Spanish squad setup. He is dreaming of a call-up for the World Cup. A few solid performances during this international break can help him solidify a spot in the team, especially with the tournament round the corner.
Real Madrid have finally received some good news as MARCA confirms that Nacho has finally made his decision about his future, and is set to continue at the club for the foreseeable future.
His contract expires in the summer, and Real Madrid had tabled an extension for the player, which was not accepted by the Spaniard at the time. Now, however, he has decided to reject offers from Juventus, Inter Milan, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.
Nacho will sign a one year extension, with the option to extend for another year if both parties reach an agreement.
His continuity also means that he will be the new club captain for the 2023/24 season, since Karim Benzema is leaving the club on a free transfer in the summer. Luka Modric will be second captain, followed by Daniel Carvajal and Toni Kroos.
Carlo Ancelotti has also spoken to the player, confirming that they trust him for next season in the team, which has gone a long way in helping convince the player.
The Italian gaffer also spoke about the Spanish defender’s contract situation after the game against Athletic Club yesterday, saying:
“Asensio, Nacho and Ceballos? We have explained them their roles. The club have offered them renewals. Asensio has preferred to leave, Ceballos and Nacho are still thinking about it.”
While a centre-back by trade, Nacho has played across the defence for Madrid continuously, including putting shifts at left-back, right-back, and even centre-back.
His departure would have probably pushed Madrid to sign another defender, especially since they are considering selling Ferland Mendy if a good offer arrives.
Regardless of that, though, Madrid are moving to sign Alphonso Davies, and have already made initial contacts with the player. Bayern Munich have not rejected their advances.
Further, the los blancos management have already met with Davies’ entourage twice, cementing their interest in the Canadian ace.
