Real Madrid academy prodigy set to earn first national team call-up – report | OneFootball

There is much excitement surrounding Luis de la Fuente’s impending Spain squad announcement as La Roja gear up for their upcoming UEFA Nations League quarterfinal double-header against the Netherlands.

Spain will be returning to action after a long break and during this period, the rapid growth of Raul Asencio was one of the highlights of La Liga.

In the midst of Real Madrid’s ongoing injury crisis in the defensive unit, Asencio has enjoyed a solid breakthrough and has now become a viable defensive option for coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Raul poised for Spain call-up next week

Raul Asencio’s breakthrough has been such that the young defensive prodigy could be set for a maiden call-up to the Spanish national team next week.

This is according to COPE, which suggests that Asencio will be on Luis de la Fuente’s list next week, featuring alongside some of the prominent defenders in Spanish football.

Asencio set to be called up for Spain vs Netherlands. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Asencio’s potential inclusion could be helped by the fact that Athletic Club defender Dani Vivian has picked up an injury recently.

Vivian’s absence should pave the way for De la Fuente to call up Asencio, who has impressed onlookers with his composure at the back.

That said, Asencio’s inclusion might not necessarily guarantee his debut for La Roja, especially given the fact that Spain will take on the Netherlands in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Nations League rather than a simple international friendly.

However, should Spain secure a comprehensive lead in the first leg, it won’t be surprising to see Raul Asencio making his debut in the second leg.