Real Madrid: 3 big questions for Marco Asensio before 2020-2021

Can Marco Asensio be a regular starter for Real Madrid?

While Real boasted an impressive defensive record to mount a successful charge to the La Liga title, doubts over the attacking output of the team continue to persist. Zidane clearly appreciates players who can play in a variety of roles and Marco Asensio’s versatility will be a welcome addition as Zidane seeks to revamp the attack. The Spaniard can play a variety of roles on either wing, as well as through the center and his speed and stamina coupled with his great technical abilities allow him to excel with and without the ball.

Asensio was purportedly a vital cog in Zidane’s plans, with the Frenchman planning to play a trident of Hazard, Benzema, and Asensio in his preferred 4-3-3. However, Asensio’s injuries meant that the Los Blancos’ coach had to put his plans on hold.

Zidane finally got his chance towards the end of last season as he fielded the trio together several times in training. This season, the onus is on Asensio to complete Zidane’s plans as Real seek to improve their offensive record from last season’s outing.

With the Belgian No. 7 also having his own share of struggles with injuries in his first season at the club, both Hazard and Asensio have to rise to the occasion and support Benzema in what looks like a devastating and dynamic attack on paper. The club is convinced that the talent is there as they have often placed their faith in the player who has impressed everyone following his road to recovery.

As he completes his return, Asensio must stave off competition from the likes of Brazilian youngster Rodrygo, who is coming off an impressive debut season, and nail his spot on the right side of the attack in tandem with Hazard and Benzema. The trio could be a key element of Real’s attack heading into the new decade and it is clear the Zinedine Zidane himself thinks so.