The return of Aurélien Tchouaméni to the Real Madrid squad is a positive development, but it creates a challenge for Carlo Ancelotti.
After being sidelined due to injury, the French midfielder re-enters a team in the midst of growth, where players like Dani Ceballos and Raúl Asensio have already made their mark.
During Tchouaméni’s absence, Dani Ceballos seized the opportunity. Once overlooked in Madrid’s plans, the Spanish midfielder has impressed with consistent performances, even drawing comparisons to Toni Kroos from some analysts.
Ceballos’ strong form complicates Tchouaméni’s immediate reintegration into the midfield, especially since Tchouaméni was occasionally deployed as a center-back, a role he is unlikely to return to, given the coaching staff’s current decisions.
Marca also notes the unexpected emergence of 21-year-old defender Raúl Asensio. Filling in for the injured Éder Militão, Asensio has strengthened the defense alongside Antonio Rüdiger.
The coaching staff is unanimous in its belief that, despite Tchouaméni’s return, Asensio will remain a key starter in defense for the rest of the season.
With other key players like Eduardo Camavinga returning from injury, competition in midfield will increase. Camavinga, who has consistently delivered when called upon, will become another option for Ancelotti.
The depth of Real Madrid’s squad, while advantageous for managing a packed schedule, presents Carlo Ancelotti with difficult choices.
This competition for starting positions is a welcome dilemma for Ancelotti: a team brimming with talented players eager to make an impact. Whether it’s Tchouaméni, Ceballos, Camavinga, or Asensio in defense, each player must demonstrate their value to earn a spot in the starting lineup.
With such a strong squad, Real Madrid is well-equipped to tackle the upcoming challenges in both La Liga and the Champions League.