
'Zero fear' - Millwall boss Neil urges Lions to embrace promotion challenge
Millwall's Alex Neil tells players to have 'zero fear' in promotion race.
Real Madrid academy player Raul Asencio is absent from the squad list for the UEFA Champions League match against Bayern Munich due to undisclosed reasons. His omission has sparked significant discussion among fans and analysts.
Reason why Real Madrid academy star is absent from squad list vs Bayern Munich
Real Madrid were already under the spotlight ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Bayern Munich, but one unexpected omission had become the biggest talking point – the absence of Raul Asencio.
Now, clarity has finally emerged regarding the situation.
When the squad list was officially released, most selections were straightforward.
However, Asencio’s absence immediately stood out, especially given his recent involvement.
The 23-year-old had started and completed the full 90 minutes in Real Madrid’s recent league clash against Girona, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
There were no prior signs of injury, nor any official medical update from the club to explain his omission.
That lack of clarity only intensified speculation, particularly in light of recent reports suggesting a disagreement between the player and manager Alvaro Arbeloa.
The situation had reportedly escalated to the point where Asencio issued a public apology in front of his teammates, raising questions about his standing within the squad.
Asencio will miss the Bayern Munich tie. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
However, journalist Guillermo Rai has now provided a more grounded explanation.
According to the journalist, Asencio’s absence is not related to disciplinary reasons or internal conflict, but rather due to a sudden health issue.
The defender has reportedly been experiencing dizziness over the past few hours, prompting the decision to leave him out of the travelling squad.
Within the club, there is also a belief that the symptoms could be linked to gastroenteritis, a condition that would understandably rule him out of such an intense fixture.
While the explanation does offer clarity, the timing of the situation inevitably added fuel to the rumours.
Given the recent tension between player and manager, many were quick to assume the omission was linked to off-field issues.
Instead, it appears to be an unfortunate coincidence, one that came at the worst possible moment for both the player and the club.
Raul Asencio's absence from the squad list has been confirmed, but the specific reasons for his omission have not been disclosed.
Asencio's absence could affect Real Madrid's squad depth and tactical options, especially in a crucial UEFA Champions League match.
The official squad list for the match against Bayern Munich was released shortly before the game, highlighting the unexpected omission of Raul Asencio.

Millwall's Alex Neil tells players to have 'zero fear' in promotion race.

Damon Jones plans to plead guilty in NBA gambling scandal involving LeBron and Davis.

Max Verstappen battles Christopher Haase at Nürburgring NLS2 race.

Anthony Gordon is a target for Bayern Munich and Arsenal as he could leave Newcastle this summer.

Ovechkin confident he won't retire after season finale against Columbus
A.J. Hinch provides an update on Justin Verlander's injury situation.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.