Raúl Asencio gave an interview to El Chiringuito in which he discusses current events in Madrid, his meteoric rise to the first team, and his recent call-up to the national team.
From the reserve team to undisputed player at Real Madrid…
It’s been a sudden, very rapid change. At the beginning of November, I played in a Clasico with Castilla… But it’s been a very enjoyable process, which I’m experiencing as intensely as possible and on the right track.
Who keeps you grounded?
At home, my mother, my father, and my brother. Those who help me know how to handle all this. Along with my agent, Manu, my friends… They help me know how to handle this situation. I’m surrounding myself well.
Was it difficult to come to Madrid?
I arrived at the age of 14… I left behind my family, my friends, school… Everything I loved. I arrived in Madrid without knowing anyone… It was a bit difficult, especially the first few months. I managed to integrate into the dormitory with my classmates.
Who helped you the most at Real Madrid?
Raúl González in this final stage… His support was fundamental.
And now, in the locker room?
There are plenty… The locker room is very healthy. I often find myself with the Spaniards: Fede, Modric, Vini, Bellingham…
Does the Real Madrid jersey carry a lot of weight?
Yes… From a very young age, we feel the pressure of wearing it, but we prepare ourselves for everything that might happen in the future. Not everyone is so lucky… but when you reach the first team, you feel that responsibility.
Does the national team badge carry the same weight?
I don’t know if it’s pressure… It’s a responsibility, a pride, the fulfillment of a dream. When I was a kid, I always joked with my friends that one day I’d play there…
You’re compared to Ramos, how do you feel about it?
People like to compare… Sergio is a legend, there’s no better role model. Every player is different, Sergio is great, he will always leave a legacy, but I’m Asencio and I want to make my career; I’d like to be able to get closer to what he achieved. He was my idol when I was a child.
His main characteristic?
Personality, character, focus.
How do you feel in rival teams’ stadiums when they put pressure on you?
I like it, I feel motivated. Against Real Madrid, there’s extra pressure in every stadium… It motivates me, I focus, and I get even more into the game, if that’s possible.
I go to stadiums to play football. I don’t go there to listen to anyone. People pay to see a show; they should focus on cheering on their team… All I can say is that we’re all individuals, and it’s up to their conscience to decide what comes out of their mouths.
How is your relationship with De La Fuente?
Yesterday we met for the first time… Affectionate. He was very kind.
How is your relationship with Ancelotti?
Very good, he’s very close to us. And that’s very important in this kind of dressing room. Since I arrived, he’s helped me a lot. He helps the young players a lot. He’s a great person, and as a coach, there’s nothing to complain about.
Does he help you on all levels?
He has the experience of coaching many players and he knows exactly what each one needs. I’m going through a period of transition, of change… and he’s helped me a lot.
What’s Mbappé like in the locker room?
Kylian is another player on the team. He’s very humble, hardworking, and calm. He’s a very good person. He has a great sense of humor and a very positive attitude in all situations. As I said, it’s a healthy locker room, a great group.
Do you think he’s the best player in the world?
I couldn’t say… At Real Madrid, we’re lucky to have the best… I don’t want to get into that.
If you had to choose a player from Atleti or Barça for Madrid?
We’re happy with what we have.
The other day, you looked “dead.” Are you tired?
The schedule is very tight. We play football, but we’re people, athletes who need to rest from time to time. I think it’s good for football. If you have periods of rest, it will be better. It’s a matter of agreement. It would improve everything: the spectacle, the matches…
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In Madrid.
Do you want to renew?
It doesn’t all depend on me… My dream is to renew with Real Madrid and stay there for many years.
Your next dream?
To make my debut for the national team. With Madrid, we’re alive in all competitions… I dream of winning the Champions League.
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