Real Madrid register Raul Asencio for first team

Raul Asencio is now officially a Real Madrid first-team player. The centre-back, who impressed in his early appearances for the Whites, will no longer be registered with Castilla.

After a debut season where injuries forced him into the starting XI, the defender has earned Xabi Alonso's confidence and a permanent place, at least for now, in the first-team squad.

As a result, Asencio will be assigned a new squad number - he previously wore 35, reserved for academy players - and will have to fight for his place under the new manager, although his start hasn't been ideal.

Xabi Alonso has witnessed three glaring errors from Asencio at the Club World Cup - a penalty conceded, a sending off, and a goal gifted to the opposition - meaning he doesn't currently start as a first-choice player.