Mourinho Expresses Displeasure Over Raul Asencio’s Off-Field Conduct
Real Madrid boss José Mourinho has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with Raul Asencio ahead of the club’s La Liga clash against Real Betis on Friday. The 23-year-old defender recently admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol in Gran Canaria, an offense that has led to a fine and suspension of his driving license.
A Troubled Past and a Present Commitment
This is not the first time Asencio has found himself in trouble off the pitch. Mourinho addressed this issue during a press conference, emphasizing the importance of professionalism both on and off the field:
“I spoke with him when I arrived. We talked about things from the past. Since I arrived, I haven’t spoken about situations outside (the training ground at) Valdebebas because, in Valdebebas, he is an exemplary professional.”
Mourinho highlighted Asencio’s dedication to training and recovery despite his recent thigh injury, revealing that:
- He was one of the top trainers when fit.
- Even while injured, he remains the first to arrive and the last to leave training.
- He exhibits “extreme dedication” to his recovery.
However, Mourinho made it clear that off-pitch behavior is just as critical as on-pitch efforts.
The Real Madrid Player Identity 24/7
The Real Madrid manager underlined the club’s strict standards concerning player conduct:
“But a Real Madrid player is a Real Madrid player 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 12 months a year. Everything you do outside your professional area continues to reflect on Real Madrid, continues to affect the prestige of a club that is untouchable.”
He acknowledged that while everyone makes mistakes, repeated errors present a bigger problem:
“I am not happy. Everyone makes mistakes, but accumulated mistakes are something different.”
Current Status and Club’s Response
Asencio remains sidelined with a thigh injury and Mourinho mentioned that:
“The club has opened a case and, as a coach, while the case is open, I see him as a Real Madrid player.”
The manager also revealed that Asencio will be out for at least a few more weeks, which currently limits the coach’s direct involvement with the player regarding the disciplinary issue.
Challenges Ahead with a Limited Squad
Real Madrid face Betis with a stretched squad, as several key players including Aurelien Tchouameni, Ferland Mendy, Thiago Pitarch, Eder Militao, Endrick, and Rodrygo are sidelined due to injuries. Younger signing Sergio Martinez, recently acquired from Racing Santander, is expected to make the bench after impressing in training.
Mourinho vs. Pellegrini: Respect on the Pitch
Friday’s La Liga clash will see Mourinho face off against his old rival Manuel Pellegrini. The Portuguese coach insisted that any previous bad blood is behind them:
“I’ve had some words, some very stupid comments with him, that I’m not proud of. For me, he is a great coach, an example as a coach and as a person. I like him a lot. Tomorrow, I will give him a hug before and after the match.”
Looking Forward to a Tough Match Against Betis
Real Madrid have started the season strongly, winning all three opening matches. On the other hand, Betis are recovering from a heavy 5-2 defeat to Levante last weekend. Mourinho acknowledged the challenge:
“Betis is a very good team. Real Madrid’s recent results there are very telling. It’s difficult to win there and, to do so, you have to be at your best.”
Notably, Dani Ceballos will not play against his former club, having recently rejoined Betis after his stint with Real Madrid.
In Summary
José Mourinho has made clear his disappointment in Raul Asencio’s off-field conduct while praising his professionalism in training at Valdebebas. With several injuries affecting squad depth, Mourinho’s challenging choices ahead of the Betis encounter will test his managerial acumen. Respect remains mutual with Pellegrini, adding an extra edge to what promises to be a gripping La Liga fixture.
