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.
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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.
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Asencio will miss the Bayern Munich tie. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
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.
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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.
