La Liga
The Real Madrid Players Affected By Asensio’s Injury
Tuesday night’s pre-season friendly against Arsenal saw Asensio agonizingly tear his ACL. Unfortunately, the Mallorca born forward now faces being sidelined for many months.
Despite opting out of the U21 UEFA Euro Championship over the summer and choosing to focus on a strong comeback with Los Blancos, the 23-year-old is likely to miss the entire season.
At the moment, the futures of several Real Madrid players may be affected by the Spaniard’s injury. After all, the loss of Asensio opens up a space in the squad not previously there.
Which Players Are Affected By Asensio’s Injury
Vinicius Jr.
First and most obvious on the list is the speedy Brazilian forward. Although the 19-year-old has undeniable quality, impressing head coach Zinedine Zidane seems to have been out of reach so far. Initially, the French manager’s plan was for Vinicius Jr. and Asensio to compete for the right attacking position. However, it is likely that the spot now falls to the former Flamengo winger by default.
Isco
Unlike Vinicius Jr., the Andalusian midfielder does not need to prove his quality to the manager. Nevertheless, the loss of his countryman makes Isco all the more important for the whites. Despite being one of the best dribblers in football, the Spain international’s name is often in reports and rumors of an impending transfer to Manchester City. At the moment, it is unlikely Zidane will allow the midfield magician to go anywhere.
Rodrygo, Takefusa Kubo & Brahim Diaz
Rodrygo and Kubo are well on their way to be a part of Raul’s Castilla for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Brahim Diaz is recovering from an injury of his own and many expect a loan to be in the plans. However, the former Man City player may now have a place. Especially since Zidane displayed confidence in him towards the end of last season. Furthermore, if Fede Valverde obtains Spanish citizenship, his Japanese and Brazilian colleagues will be eligible to join the first team as well.
Gareth Bale
Many believe the Welshman’s situation with the club changes due to Asensio’s misfortune. Furthermore, Gareth’s combination with his Spanish teammate to produce two goals in the same match that saw the injury take place clearly displayed Bale’s quality. Regardless, the loss of Marco has little affect on Zidane’s opinion of the former Tottenham player and he is just as likely to be leaving as before.
James Rodriguez
Likewise, James is another player set to exit Madrid but thought to have new-found purpose under the circumstances. The Colombian play-maker seems ready to head to the other side of the Spanish capital but some think a backup with his experience will now be deemed necessary. Like Bale, this possibility falls on the less likely side.
Dani Ceballos & Lucas Vasquez
Both men have been rumored to go to Arsenal but Ceballos’ loan move is almost completed. On the other hand, Vasquez’s future is uncertain. Ironically, Asensio’s torn ACL against Arsenal may result in the London club not getting Dani on loan. Unlikely as it is. The injury does however mean that the dependable and loyal work of Vasquez on the right wing as a back-up will be needed more than ever in Real’s pursuit of La Liga in 2019-2020.
Written by Chris Cartwright
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