The 23-year-old defender recently underwent surgery on a tibia fracture after trying to manage the injury with conservative treatment since January.

"The pain was getting worse. I was suffering, but I couldn't stop because the team was above everything," Asencio said.

Eventually, the injury became too serious to continue without surgery. One of the biggest boosts during his recovery came from an unexpected visit from Jose Mourinho.

"Mourinho's visit gave me a shot of energy," Asencio said. "In those moments of doubt, when you're thinking about how the recovery is going to go and how long you're going to be out, having him come to see me is really comforting."

Asencio described Mourinho as "approachable, humble, kind and ambitious", adding that the Real Madrid coach is "a great person on a human level, besides being a great coach".

The defender has also had to deal with controversy away from football, including a drink-driving case during the European summer. Asencio accepted responsibility and said he understands the standards expected of a Real Madrid player.

"I made a mistake. I admitted it then and I admit it now," he said. "I've apologised and I'll keep apologising."

"I'm a 23-year-old kid and I've made mistakes, just like anyone can at that age. But I have to be aware of where I am. I'm at Real Madrid, and that can't happen again."

Asencio insists the experience has strengthened his determination to succeed at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"I'm only focused on turning this situation around. I dream of turning everything around and winning titles with this club and this jersey, hopefully for the rest of my career."

The defender also looked back fondly on his breakthrough at Real Madrid, particularly his debut against Osasuna when he provided the assist for Jude Bellingham.

He credited the club's academy, La Fabrica, for giving him the confidence to perform on the biggest stage.

"The training they gave me in the youth academy allowed me to go out without any fear and do what I know," he said. "La Fabrica is a school of learning."

Asencio also paid tribute to Carlo Ancelotti, who handed him his first-team debut and played an important role in his development.

"For me he was much more than the coach. He was the person who supported me, who bet on me and told me: 'You're going to stay with us'. I will always keep a special memory of him."

The defender says the support of the Bernabeu fans has also been important during a difficult period.

"Real Madrid gave me everything. And for that and in return, I will give everything for Madrid," he said. "Now I will fight to make them proud of me again."

Asencio also backed Vinicius Junior to rediscover his best form, insisting the Brazilian remains hugely valued inside the Real Madrid dressing room.

"Vini is Vini and will always remain so. Vini has a special aura. Everybody in the dressing room wants him," he said.

"He may not be the Vini of two years ago now, but he will return because we see him on a daily basis."

Asencio believes Kylian Mbappe should also be considered the leading candidate for the Ballon d'Or.

"That would be fair. I see him on a day-to-day basis. For me he is the best player of all the nominees," he said. "Football-wise, Kylian is the best."

Real Madrid host Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday as Asencio continues his recovery and prepares for his return to first-team action.

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