Aurélien Tchouaméni puts Madrid in a tough spot for El Clásico: 'If I play with...'

Aurélien Tchouaméni has established himself as one of the key pieces for Real Madrid in the Xabi Alonso era. Since his arrival on the bench, the coach has found in the Frenchman the balance he needed to dominate matches. His current performance stands in stark contrast to last year, when he had to play as an improvised center-back on numerous occasions.

Today, with authority and full confidence, Aurélien Tchouaméni has become the true anchor for Real Madrid. He controls the tempo, protects the defense, and allows the more attacking players to play with freedom. That's why every decision Xabi Alonso makes in midfield is inevitably tied to his presence and performance.

Aurélien Tchouaméni puts Madrid in a tough spot for el Clásico: "If I play with..."

Barring an unexpected turn, Aurélien Tchouaméni will be in the starting line-up for el Clásico taking place tomorrow at Bernabéu. His performance in recent matches and his connection with Xabi Alonso's tactical approach guarantee him a permanent spot in the starting eleven. However, the player's latest statements have put the coach in a bit of a tough spot.

The Frenchman has acknowledged that his role changes depending on the teammates he has alongside him. "If I play with Arda and Jude, I have to stay a little more in position. When I play with Camavinga, we can move and rotate a little more." With that statement, Aurélien Tchouaméni has revealed how his role changes depending on the environment Xabi Alonso decides to build around him.

This admission puts the coach before a key dilemma for el Clásico. If he goes with Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham, Tchouaméni will have to play a more defensive role, anchoring the team and covering the advances. But if he chooses Camavinga, Real Madrid will gain mobility, pressing, and a much more dynamic ball progression.

Aurélien Tchouaméni's words force Xabi Alonso to react

Xabi Alonso knows the importance of keeping balance in big matches. He knows that a poor adjustment in midfield can dismantle Real Madrid's game plan. That's why choosing Aurélien Tchouaméni's partner will be one of the most delicate tactical keys for el Clásico.

Beyond the tactical debate, Aurélien Tchouaméni has shown tremendous maturity in his statements. He recognizes his role, understands the team's demands, and takes on responsibilities that used to weigh on him. His evolution under Xabi Alonso has been clear: now he not only breaks up the opposition's play, but also starts moves with precision.