5 things we've learned about Real Madrid so far this season

#4 Marco Asensio is one for the future

Marco Asensio is the future for both club and country

Last season, a star was born at the Santiago Bernabeu in the form of Marco Asensio as the youngster burst onto the scene and quickly established himself as one of the hottest talents in world football. And why not?

Even at only 21 years of age, the Spaniard already has all the necessary qualities to go on to become one of the greatest players the world will witness as he possesses technique, pace, skill and most importantly, finishing prowess in abundance which makes him a complete player, despite his tender age.

In fact, Asensio’s finishing is so good that he has already established himself as not just a goal scorer, but rather, a scorer of great goals. More importantly, his goal in the UEFA Champions League final against Juventus last season proved that he has what it takes to perform when the stakes are at their highest.

After showing a few glimpses of what he’s capable of last season, the Spaniard has managed to raise the bar for himself this season.

Truth be told, in a season wherein the likes of Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo (BBC) have all settled for mediocrity for one reason or the other, Asensio has been the only Madrid player who has dared to try and achieve something above the ordinary.

And from an individual standpoint, it must be said that Asensio is having the best season of his brief career up until now as he has managed 4 goals and three assists from 16 La Liga appearances so far this season.

But unfortunately for him, his efforts have been overshadowed by Madrid’s woeful title defence. Moreover, given the fact that the once renowned trio of Bale Benzema and Ronaldo are officially a thing of the past, if there’s anyone who can help Madrid salvage some of their wounded pride this season, it ought to be Asensio.

On the other hand, the fact that Madrid acquired a player like Asensio is extremely unlike them in the first place as he doesn’t fit the traditional ‘Galactico’ (superstar) bill the club usually follows.

But having said that, Asensio may just be the one to lead the next generation of superstars at the club as he has proved his mettle more than ever this season. Finally, if Asensio does go on to fulfil his undeniable potential at the Bernabeu, it would be a watershed moment for Madrid on more than one level.