Real Madrid open disciplinary case against Raul Asencio after drink-driving conviction

Real Madrid have started disciplinary proceedings against defender Raul Asencio after he was convicted of drink-driving, head coach Jose Mourinho has confirmed.

Asencio was found to have been driving with more than three times Spain’s legal alcohol limit during an incident on 16 August. He was convicted last month, fined €14,400 and banned from driving for eight months.

The 23-year-old is also due to appear in court in Gran Canaria this week over an alleged non-consensual sharing of a sexual video from 2023. Asencio denies any wrongdoing in that case.

Mourinho said he was disappointed by the defender’s conduct, although he also praised Asencio’s attitude and commitment during his time at Real Madrid.

“He’s a model professional. When he was fit, no one trained as hard as him,” Mourinho told reporters.

“Now that he’s been injured for a few weeks, he’s the first to arrive and the last to leave training.

“But a Real Madrid player remains a Real Madrid player 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 12 months a year.

“Everything you do outside the pitch represents Real Madrid and could affect the club’s prestige.

“I’m not happy. Everyone makes mistakes but when they pile up, it’s not the same.”

Real Madrid have now begun their internal process while Asencio faces the separate legal proceedings in Gran Canaria.

The centre-back has been unavailable with a hamstring injury since July and has not been included in Mourinho’s matchday squad at any point this season.

Asencio was an important member of the Real Madrid squad during the previous two campaigns, when he made regular appearances in central defence.

The club’s action follows the drink-driving conviction and comes as the player prepares to attend court in relation to the separate allegation. The two matters are proceeding independently, with Asencio denying the accusation connected to the video.

Mourinho’s comments underlined the standards expected of players representing Real Madrid beyond their performances on the pitch. He acknowledged Asencio’s professionalism in training, particularly during his injury absence, but said players remain representatives of the club at all times.

The manager’s criticism came despite his recognition of Asencio’s work ethic. According to Mourinho, the defender has continued to be the first player to arrive and the last to leave training while sidelined.

Asencio’s absence has so far prevented him from featuring for Real Madrid this season. Before his injury, however, he had established himself as a regular option at centre-back across the previous two campaigns.

Real Madrid’s disciplinary proceedings will now take place alongside the court process in Gran Canaria, leaving the defender facing scrutiny both from his club and through the legal system.