Real Madrid homegrown star set to wear new shirt number next season – all possible options | OneFootball

Raul Asencio’s rise through the ranks at Real Madrid has been one of the most positive stories of the season, and the young centre-back is now set for another significant milestone, a new shirt number in the first team.

According to a recent report from MARCA, Asencio, who recently signed a contract extension until 2031, will switch from the No. 35 shirt, which is traditionally worn by youth players, to an official squad number following the Club World Cup.

With the departures of Luka Modric (No. 10) and Lucas Vazquez (No. 17) after the tournament, Real Madrid will have more flexibility in terms of shirt numbers.

Currently, the No. 18 and 25 shirts are available, and Asencio is expected to be assigned one of those for now.

Interestingly, there is a possibility of more movement in the squad, as Kylian Mbappe is widely expected to inherit Modric’s iconic No. 10.

This could lead to a ripple effect where other squad members opt to change their shirt numbers, potentially freeing up more options, including one that might better suit Asencio’s future standing in the team.

On the rise

Raul Asencio will wear a new number next season. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Asencio has already been training with the Real Madrid first team for over 300 days, stepping up during a defensive injury crisis and impressing everyone.

His performances earned him a contract renewal, a pay rise, and a release clause set at €1 billion, showing just how highly the club values him.

The 22-year-old is expected to fight for a permanent role in Xabi Alonso’s starting XI next season, especially now that Dean Huijsen has also arrived.

The change in shirt number symbolises not just his presence in the senior squad but also the trust Real Madrid are placing in his future.

As the Club World Cup wraps up and new squad roles are defined, all eyes will be on Asencio, a name that could become a regular fixture at the Santiago Bernabeu for years to come.