With Dean Huijsen suspended and Konate facing a fitness issue, that chance could now arrive.

The Spanish centre-back attracted interest from Chelsea and Liverpool in the Premier League, while a lucrative offer also came from Turkey. Real Madrid were also looking to strengthen at centre-back and eventually brought in Konate, leaving Asencio facing further competition for a place.

Despite the offers, Asencio decided to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu.

His decision was based on the belief that circumstances would eventually give him an opening. That moment may have arrived sooner than expected.

Huijsen was sent off in the derby, while Konate's physical condition remains uncertain after he was injured while on international duty with France. Asencio has yet to play a minute this season, but he is now back in contention.

The 23-year-old has also endured a difficult period away from the pitch.

Asencio was acquitted in a case relating to the disclosure of secrets, bringing an end to one of the off-field issues surrounding him. He was then involved in another incident after recording more than four times the legal alcohol limit while driving.

He accepted responsibility, received a fine of 14,400 euros and lost his driving licence for eight months.

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho was unhappy with the incident and made his feelings clear.

"A Real Madrid player is a Real Madrid player 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 12 months a year," Mourinho said.

"Everything you do outside of your professional life continues to damage the prestige of a club that is untouchable."

Mourinho added: "We all make mistakes, but accumulating mistakes is a different thing. I'm not happy."

The manager has also praised Asencio's attitude as a professional, describing him as an "exemplary professional" and highlighting his commitment during his recovery.

Now the defender has the opportunity to put the distractions behind him and focus entirely on football.

Asencio has been working his way back from a tibia problem and is looking to regain full fitness. His progress will be monitored during the international break, with his return to competitive action still to be determined.

Until now, he has been one of the few members of the Real Madrid squad yet to make an appearance this season.

That could change when Real Madrid return to La Liga action against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, October 10.

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