Real Madrid's Raul Asencio may need surgery for shin injury

Real Madrid is evaluating whether defender Raul Asencio requires surgery for a persistent tibia problem, with a meeting set for Wednesday between the player, coaching staff, and medical team. Asencio's absence complicates an already strained defensive lineup ahead of the match against Villarreal. With several center-backs unavailable, including Dean Huijsen and Ibrahima Konate, coach Jose Mourinho is facing significant defensive challenges. Asencio initially planned to delay a decision until Christmas, but the urgency has increased due to the lack of improvement in his condition.

• 9:35 PMYahoo Sports — Real Madrid to decide whether 23-year-old defender needs surgery for persistent injury