Asensio Express

METEORIC RISE

Born in the Balearic Islands to a Spanish father and Dutch mother, Marco Asensio owes his first name to Marco van Basten, the former Dutch forward and three-time Ballon d'Or winner. Very soon, he lives up to his name, joining RCD Mallorca aged 10.

He quickly rises through the ranks, making his first-team debut at 17 in the Spanish second division. Spotted by Real Madrid, he joins them but remains on loan at Mallorca before moving on a temporary basis to Espanyol where he makes his La Liga bow. He scores four times and delivers 12 assists in 37 top-flight matches for the Barcelona-based club, announcing his ability to hold his own in Spain's biggest league.

Brought back to Madrid, he opens the scoring on his debut in the UEFA Super Cup against FC Sevilla, helping Madrid win 3-2 to claim the first trophy of his career. Many others would follow with 15, including three Champions Leagues, coming over the next seven seasons.

A COMPLETE FORWARD

Quite simply, Marco Asensio can pretty much do anything. A technical and powerful left-footed forward, he can play across the front line. His ability to dribble through defences at speed endeared him to the Bernabeu, but he is just as comfortable with his back to goal. The 27-year-old is blessed with an exceptional shot, and can score from anywhere, either from open play or set-pieces. 

DID YOU KNOW?

Marco Asensio can thank Rafael Nadal for his move to Real Madrid. The 14-time French Open winner is also from the Balearic Islands and a fan of Real, and he spoke to Madrid president Florentino Perez about his fellow Mallorcan. The two have been good friends since, and will surely meet up again in Paris at some stage in the future.