Real Madrid News
Reason why Real Madrid academy star is absent from squad list vs Bayern Munich
Real Madrid were already under the spotlight ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Bayern Munich, but one unexpected omission had become the biggest talking point – the absence of Raul Asencio.
Now, clarity has finally emerged regarding the situation.
When the squad list was officially released, most selections were straightforward.
However, Asencio’s absence immediately stood out, especially given his recent involvement.
The 23-year-old had started and completed the full 90 minutes in Real Madrid’s recent league clash against Girona, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
There were no prior signs of injury, nor any official medical update from the club to explain his omission.
That lack of clarity only intensified speculation, particularly in light of recent reports suggesting a disagreement between the player and manager Alvaro Arbeloa.
The situation had reportedly escalated to the point where Asencio issued a public apology in front of his teammates, raising questions about his standing within the squad.
Why is Asencio absent?
However, journalist Guillermo Rai has now provided a more grounded explanation.
According to the journalist, Asencio’s absence is not related to disciplinary reasons or internal conflict, but rather due to a sudden health issue.
The defender has reportedly been experiencing dizziness over the past few hours, prompting the decision to leave him out of the travelling squad.
Within the club, there is also a belief that the symptoms could be linked to gastroenteritis, a condition that would understandably rule him out of such an intense fixture.
While the explanation does offer clarity, the timing of the situation inevitably added fuel to the rumours.
Given the recent tension between player and manager, many were quick to assume the omission was linked to off-field issues.
Instead, it appears to be an unfortunate coincidence, one that came at the worst possible moment for both the player and the club.
Real Madrid are hoping to have Kylian Mbappe, Ibrahima Konate and Federico Valverde available for the La Liga meeting with Villarreal, with the fitness of all three players being closely monitored, according to Melchor Ruiz.
The trio have each faced different injury concerns during the past few weeks, leaving Madrid waiting for clarity before Saturday’s fixture.
Their availability could be particularly important given the problems already affecting the squad.
Mbappe expected back at Valdebebas
Mbappe was released early from France duty after suffering pain in his left knee during the national team’s first match against Turkiye.
Tests ruled out a serious injury, allowing the forward to take several days of active rest under the supervision of Real Madrid’s medical staff.
After returning to Madrid, Mbappe is expected at Valdebebas to continue his recovery and conditioning work.
Despite the scare, his knee problem is not currently expected to rule him out against Villarreal.
Real Madrid will nevertheless assess his condition before deciding how much work he can handle ahead of the game.
Konate provides relief amid defensive problems
Konate’s situation is also being watched closely, although the initial fears surrounding his knee have eased.
The centre-back suffered a collateral ligament problem in his right knee before appearing for France.
Further assessment ruled out a serious injury, providing significant relief for Madrid at a time when defensive options are already stretched.
Eder Militao remains sidelined, while Raul Asencio is also unavailable, making Konate’s recovery particularly important to Jose Mourinho’s plans.
Valverde facing the biggest recovery race
Valverde’s situation could be the most difficult of the three.
The midfielder suffered an ankle injury during the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid after a heavy challenge from Kang-in Lee.
He was initially diagnosed with a severe contusion, but subsequent examinations revealed a grade 3 sprain in his left ankle. Real Madrid initially expected him to need around two to three weeks to recover.
That timeline puts his availability for Villarreal under pressure, although the club remains hopeful that he can return in time.
With the three important players dealing with separate fitness issues, Real Madrid will continue assessing their progress before the Villarreal clash.
None of the trio has yet been confirmed as fit, but the club’s hope is to have all three available for selection.
