Real Madrid: 5 burning questions after 2-0 win over Alaves

3. Has Marco Asensio locked down a start spot?

Marco Asensio needed some time to warm up from his return from a torn ACL, as he mostly made appearances off the bench. But as his dream return, which included a goal with his very first touch and then an assist, showed, Asensio has the tools to be a key starter for Los Blancos.

Last week, Asensio started against Athletic Bilbao and looked like the only attacker capable of making something happen, even though he wasn’t starting in his ideal position. This Friday in his ideal starting position on the right side of the formation, Asensio got on the scoresheet again.

According to WhoScored.com, the Spanish attacking midfielder added three key passes and completed nearly 93 percent of his passes, which is an excellent number for a forward. As much praise as Asensio receives for his ability to score goals from nothing with that left foot of his, Asensio’s best play has been as a passer, looking to help others find scoring positions.

It seems like Asensio is the best option on the right now, even moreso than playing Rodrygo Goes there. Gareth Bale is a total nonfactor at this point, so Asensio should receive even more playing time. Zinedine Zidane will be careful not to overwork him, but the early returns on Asensio have been strong thus far.