Due to Real Madrid’s defensive crisis, which has seen Eder Militao, David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger injured in recent weeks, Aurélien Tchouameni has been tasked with replacing Nacho Fernandez (and Dani Carvajal for the game against Girona). It can be said that he excelled in this role.
Last weekend, during the 1-1 draw against Rayo Vallecano, it was the first time that Real Madrid conceded a goal while Tchouameni played as a defender, and again, it was on a penalty that the locals scored. The Frenchman was remarkable when called upon, even if he didn’t really enjoy playing out of position.
A central defender at heart?
One of Tchouameni’s former coaches has backed the 24-year-old to become a permanent centre-back in the future. Robert Moreno, who managed Tchouameni at Monaco, told EFE that he has all the abilities to become a top defender.
“The conditions are met. If he wants he can become one of the best central defenders in Real Madrid, look at Mascherano when he was at Barcelona. For a player of his talent, his physical and mental strength, playing further back almost makes his job easier, because he sees all the football in front of him. This, in addition to his defensive qualities. Simply, he will have to smooth out the rough edges and nuances, because playing in central defense is not playing as a pivot. These are small details. I think he can do it very well.”
Tchouameni may not like the idea of playing defense, but there is no doubt that he is excellent in that position. However, for now, he will only play in this position when absolutely necessary.
