#1 Marco Asensio
Asensio was considered Madrid's natural Ronaldo replacement with several similarities in the playing style of the two exceptional talents. Last season, he was touted as the season he would come of age, but all the spotlight was stolen by another youngster from France. But for Spain, he has taken up the mantle and has established himself as a starter for Luis Enrique's side. But the nonchalant demeanour that endeared him to thousands of fan has been sadly lacking from his play this season. He has been found hurried with the ball at his feet, often trying to find the next pass rather than dribbling his way past the opposition players. The confidence with which he leathered long-range screamers and curled balls into the corners has been sorely missing from his play, passing several glorious opportunities to shoot.
With the absence of Ronaldo, Isco and Bale from the team, you expect him to take on the Free kick responsibilities but Kroos and even Ramos have been preferred over him. This fall in the pecking order reminds you a lot of Alvaro Morata who was tipped to be the next 'Luis Suarez' but his finding his place in starting XI threatened by Giroud. His poor finishing in 1v1 situations and his under confidence to shoot when already having worked space for himself has let him and the team down in several important moments this season. He needs to find his scoring boots and the faith Solari has put in him is all the right boost a youngster like him needs.
Trending
