Asencio’s lawyer quits amid explosive claims he shared explicit video of a minor without consent
The legal defence of Real Madrid’s Raúl Asencio has been thrown into turmoil following the sudden and unexplained departure of his lead lawyer—an extraordinary twist in a scandal already shadowed by disturbing allegations and intense public scrutiny.
Asencio, 21, is currently facing serious criminal proceedings in Spain over claims he distributed an explicit video featuring a 16-year-old girl. The footage, reportedly recorded by one of Asencio’s former teammates without the girl’s consent, was allegedly circulated via WhatsApp. Although Asencio was not accused of filming it, prosecutors allege he solicited and then shared the video—raising potential charges relating to child pornography and privacy violations.
But as the high-profile case continues to grip Spanish and international media, this week saw a development few anticipated: Asencio’s defence lawyer abruptly quit. No formal explanation has been given, sparking speculation over internal conflicts and potential fractures within his legal strategy.
Embed from Getty ImagesLegal analysts have been quick to weigh in. Some suggest the resignation signals a major rift—possibly a disagreement over how aggressively to defend the footballer. Others see it as a sign of panic behind the scenes, with one expert calling it “a clear destabilisation in the middle of an already volatile trial”.
The implications are far-reaching. Changing lead counsel during an ongoing trial can seriously affect both the coherence and pace of a defence. A new lawyer may adopt a different legal approach, potentially challenging earlier decisions or attempting to introduce new evidence. At the same time, the defence must now reassure the court that proceedings won’t be derailed.
This sudden legal upheaval also reignites focus on the deeply unsettling nature of the case itself. The charges stem from a September 2023 investigation that led to the arrest of Asencio and three former Real Madrid youth teammates. The incident involved a sexually explicit video of a teenage girl that was secretly recorded and shared among the group.
Spanish authorities initially pursued a range of charges including child pornography. However, the court later ruled there was insufficient evidence to accuse Asencio of participating in the recording. The current focus is squarely on distribution—an offence that still carries heavy penalties and profound reputational damage.
Despite the gravity of the charges, Asencio has continued playing for Real Madrid, even appearing in key matches during the 2024–2025 season as injury cover. In March, he received a call-up to the national team, though he didn’t feature on the pitch. His continued presence in professional football has provoked fierce debate.
Fans and commentators remain divided. Some argue he deserves the presumption of innocence, citing the lack of formal conviction. Others insist that footballers, particularly those in the public eye, must be held accountable and held to higher standards—especially when accusations involve minors.
The scandal has sparked wider discussions about digital consent, privacy, and how young public figures navigate the responsibilities of fame in a world where one tap can ignite a legal firestorm.
As the trial moves forward, and as Asencio scrambles to rebuild his legal defence, the outcome remains unpredictable. Will a new legal team salvage his case? Or has the damage already been done?
One thing is certain: the stakes for Asencio—personally, professionally, and legally—could not be higher. What happens in the coming weeks may not only decide his fate in court, but determine whether he has any future at all in top-flight football.
