Real Madrid Investigate Raul Asencio Over Alleged Drunk Driving Incident

Real Madrid have launched an investigation into young defender Raul Asencio following an alleged drunk driving incident, with head coach Jose Mourinho expressing his disappointment over the situation.

Asencio, 23, is currently sidelined with an injury. The incident came up during Mourinho's press conference ahead of Real Madrid's La Liga clash with Real Betis on Friday.

Mourinho confirmed that the club has opened an investigation and said he would continue to treat Asencio as a Real Madrid player while the process is ongoing.

“The club has started an investigation. As a coach, during the investigation I will continue to see him as a Real Madrid player. I spoke to him when I arrived, but that was about things from the past. Since arriving, I have not spoken to him,” Mourinho said.

Asencio has faced criticism after reportedly recording an alcohol level nearly four times above the legal limit. Mourinho condemned the incident but also defended the young defender's professionalism at the club's training ground.

Without going into details about what happened away from Valdebebas, Mourinho highlighted Asencio's work ethic when he is fit and available.

“He is a real professional here. When he is fit, he is one of the players who works the hardest. He is the first to arrive and the last to leave,” Mourinho said.

The Portuguese coach also stressed the responsibilities that come with being a Real Madrid player.

“A Real Madrid player has to be dedicated 24 hours a day because things that happen away from the pitch can damage both his reputation and the reputation of the club. I am not happy about this. But we all make mistakes. If they happen one after another, then it becomes a different matter.”

Real Madrid have otherwise made a strong start to their La Liga campaign. They have won both of their opening matches to collect six points and currently sit second on goal difference.

Barcelona, the reigning La Liga champions for the past two seasons, are top of the table with the same number of points.

The outcome of Real Madrid's investigation into Asencio will now be closely watched, while the incident has once again highlighted the importance of discipline and professionalism for players at the club.