Real Madrid defender impresses with speedy recovery; eyeing return vs Arsenal

Real Madrid defender impresses with speedy recovery; eyeing return vs Arsenal Although Raul Asencio wasn’t on the top of Jose Mourinho’s priority list at the start of the season, the club’s thin depth in the defensive unit meant his injury earlier in the campaign was a blow nonetheless. Asencio decided to undergo surgery and it was reported that he might not play again in 2026, as he was effectively ruled out for at least four months. However, the defender has since made an impressive recovery, much to the joy of Jose Mourinho himself. Asencio’s lighting fast recovery As reported by AS , Asencio has considerably shortened his injury timeline after surgery on a fractured tibia earlier in the season. Asencio wants to get back into the pitch as soon as possible. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images) The procedure was expected to sideline the young defender until late January and early February. However, those who knew the defender closely were never in doubt he would push hard to return well in advance. Asencio has done exactly that thanks to some hard work at Valdebebas. The player is already back in his boots, training on the grass and working with the ball, something that was originally pencilled in for December. This has led many to believe Asencio could play once again before the turn of the year, which is nothing short of a miracle. When will Asencio return? Mourinho is impressed by Asencio’s determination. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) The report claims that Asencio hopes to be training with the first-team once the international break concludes and could even push to be included in the squad for the Champions League clash against Arsenal on December 13. Interestingly, Asencio made his debut at the Bernabeu against the same team two years ago. However, perhaps a safer return date could be December 16, when Real Madrid are slated to play their first Copa del Rey tie. This would be an ideal, lower-stakes match, helping Asencio ease his way back. Even fellow injured star Rodrygo is eyeing a return on the same date . Mourinho, for his part, is impressed by the determination and commitment shown by Asencio as well as the attitude he has shown. Now it is up to Asencio to make the final stretch to full fitness and once again become a first-team option for Real Madrid.