Raul Asencio: Mourinho’s visit gave me a major boost after surgery

Raul Asencio says Jose Mourinho’s visit following his operation gave him “a big energy boost” and described the former Real Madrid manager as the best coach in the world.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, the Real Madrid defender praised Mourinho’s character as well as his work in football.

“Mourinho is close, humble and friendly,” Asencio said. “He is a wonderful person on a human level, as well as being a great coach.”

Asencio also reflected on the pressure of playing for Real Madrid, having joined the club at the age of 14.

“From the moment I arrived at Real Madrid when I was 14, I felt the pressure that comes with this shirt,” he said. “But that pressure is what makes Real Madrid the best club in the world.”

The 23-year-old acknowledged that his conduct had caused disappointment among some supporters but said he was determined to repair that relationship.

“I understand that Real Madrid fans were disappointed with me at one point, but I will do everything I can to change that,” he said.

Asencio was also asked about driving under the influence of alcohol, after receiving a penalty for driving while over the legal limit in Spain.

“Mourinho was completely right,” he said. “I made a mistake, I admitted it and I still admit it. I apologised and I will continue apologising.”

“I am a 23-year-old player and I have made mistakes, as anyone can at that age. But I have to be aware of where I am. I am at Real Madrid, and this cannot happen again.”

Asencio backs Vinicius Jr

Asencio defended team-mate Vinicius Jr, saying the Brazilian remained highly valued within the Real Madrid dressing room despite his current form not matching previous levels.

“Vinicius is Vinicius and he will always be that way,” Asencio said. “He has a special aura and everyone in the dressing room loves him.”

“Players are not robots; they are people. Perhaps Vinicius is not the same now as he was two years ago, but he will come back. We see that every day.”

Asencio also spoke about the Ballon d’Or and said it would be fair for Kylian Mbappe to win the award.

“For me, he is the best player among all the nominees,” he said. “From a footballing point of view, Kylian is the best. He is the best goalscorer in every aspect.”

Real Madrid are fourth in the La Liga table with 15 points, six behind leaders Barcelona.

They are preparing to face Villarreal next Saturday in the eighth round of La Liga at the Santiago Bernabeu.