The Spanish international has had a trophy-filled career, winning multiple Champions League titles with Real Madrid and the French league with Paris Saint-Germain.
His two goals against Cardiff in the FA Cup on Friday helped Villa reach the quarter-finals, keeping him on track to add English silverware to his collection.
Since arriving on loan from PSG, Asensio has made a strong impact, now scoring four goals across all competitions.
“I’m very happy with my teammates and the staff. They give me a lot of confidence,” Asensio told ITV Sport.
“I try to give my best on the pitch, and things are going well. I want to score more and contribute to this team and club—this is my goal. We must keep pushing, and we’re on the right path. The next step is the Champions League, and that’s our focus now.”
Villa fans have even more to be excited about as Asensio builds a strong connection with Marcus Rashford, who joined on loan from Manchester United in January.
Rashford assisted Asensio’s first goal against Cardiff, meaning all three of his assists for Villa so far have been for the Spanish midfielder.
“Marcus is a top player,” Asensio said. “We haven’t played together for long, but I already understand his game—how he passes and what he wants to do. I’m very happy to have him and all my teammates.”
Emery’s Praise and the Wish to Play as Number 10
Asensio seemed meant to be a footballer, as his father named him after Dutch legend Marco van Basten.
However, the 29-year-old built a successful career on his own.
He began at Mallorca, spent time at Espanyol, and then moved to Real Madrid, where he won La Liga four times and the Champions League three times.
In total, he won 17 trophies at Real Madrid, matching the achievements of football legend Alfredo Di Stefano.
After seven seasons at Real, he joined French club PSG, helping them secure a domestic treble last year.
His decision to join a team not currently competing for league titles surprised many.
But Unai Emery had admired Asensio for a long time and played a key role in bringing him in.
“Unai has tried to sign Asensio at least three times,” Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told BBC Sport.
“Asensio always told Unai that he wanted to work and grow under him.”
What convinced Asensio was Emery’s offer to play him as a number 10.
“He hasn’t played in that role since his Mallorca days,” Balague added.
“Madrid didn’t let him play there, so he discussed it with Unai. He was promised the number 10 role, and the results have been positive.”
Exciting Times Ahead for Villa – Rashford’s Fresh Boost”
Asensio is not the only player doing well after joining Aston Villa. Rashford is also improving after a tough season at Manchester United.
At Old Trafford, Rashford struggled with his form and was not a key player under Ruben Amorim. But his move to Villa and playing with Asensio seem to be helping him get back to his best.
Since his debut on February 9, Rashford has created more chances (13) in all competitions than any other Premier League player. Against Cardiff, he created six chances for Villa, matching his best-ever record from his 426 games at Manchester United (six vs Wigan in January 2024).
He has not scored yet, but with his performances, it looks like a goal will come soon.
“Aston Villa have given him a second chance,” said former Arsenal striker Ian Wright on ITV Sport. “His time at Manchester United seemed over. He needed to rebuild his confidence. He is 27 and still has a lot to offer. Villa is a great opportunity for him.
“Things could be very exciting at Aston Villa with this new attacking lineup.”
Villa’s coach, Unai Emery, believes that Asensio and Rashford need to keep up their good form for the team to succeed this season.
“We need Asensio, we need Rashford,” he said. “We need all the new players and those coming back from injury. Every player will be important in the coming weeks and months.
“Now, we focus on the Champions League. We are in it, and we must enjoy and compete.”
