As Real Madrid prepares for its first game of 2025 against Valencia on Friday, January 3, a heated moment from their training session has captured attention online. Raúl Asensio, the 21-year-old defender, delivered a fierce tackle on young talent Endrick right in front of head coach Carlo Ancelotti. The incident has ignited discussions among fans on social media.
Tensions High as Competition Ramps Up at Real Madrid
With the new year underway, the competition within the Real Madrid squad is fiercer than ever. While players like Kylian Mbappé, Antonio Rüdiger, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior are considered indispensable, others must prove themselves to secure meaningful playing time. Training sessions, especially after the holiday break, have become an arena for players to showcase their determination.
Raúl Asensio made a bold statement during a recent session, attempting to leave a lasting impression on Carlo Ancelotti. In a viral video circulating on Madrid fan pages, the defender is seen executing a forceful tackle on 18-year-old Endrick, who was positioned to score.
The Tackle That Sparked Controversy
The tackle, which occurred during one of the final drills in the session, left Endrick writhing in pain on the pitch. Medical staff quickly attended to the Brazilian forward, who initially seemed injured. Fortunately, subsequent updates revealed that he suffered no serious harm and returned to training shortly afterward—a relief for the club and its fans.
Reactions to the video have been mixed. While some argue that Asensio's challenge was excessive, especially in a training environment, others defend his actions, citing the need for defenders to assert themselves. The incident underscores the intensity expected in training sessions as players strive to remain in the coach’s plans.
A Message of Determination Amidst Risks
The event has highlighted the competitive spirit within Real Madrid’s squad as the team heads into the second half of the season. However, maintaining this intensity comes with risks. After a first half plagued by injuries, the club must tread carefully to avoid jeopardizing its chances in domestic and international competitions.
The message is clear: every player must give their all, but with a keen awareness of the fine line between commitment and recklessness. As Real Madrid aims for success on all fronts, balancing competition with caution will be key.