Xabi Alonso's arrival at Real Madrid hasn't just revolutionized the playing style, but it's also changed the lives of several footballers. One of the biggest beneficiaries is Aurélien Tchouaméni, a player who just a few months ago seemed to be on his way out of the club.
Tchouaméni's change of course
When Tchouaméni arrived at Madrid in 2022, the expectation was enormous: €80 million, a young and talented player. However, his first seasons were inconsistent, and many questioned whether he really fit into the project. Now, with Xabi Alonso on the bench, everything has changed.
Xabi Alonso has been able to see what others haven't: the Frenchman's versatility and tactical intelligence. Tchouaméni has become a key piece, whether as a midfielder or even as a central defender. His ability to quickly understand Alonso's ideas is proving essential for the team to function.
Xabi's bet: trust and adaptability
Against Salzburg, Alonso surprised everyone with a three-center-back system, something he already used at Bayer Leverkusen. Tchouaméni was the central defender, flanked by Rüdiger and Huijsen. It was Madrid's best performance in the Club World Cup so far.
After the match, Xabi highlighted: "Aurélien is an essential pillar, he makes small but very important decisions for the team." That trust is what has helped the Frenchman grow.
Key adjustments to win matches
In the match against Juventus, Madrid kept the three-center-back system, but Alonso had to modify Tchouaméni's position when Juve decided to defend deeper. Moving him to the double pivot alongside Arda Güler was a masterstroke.
"At first we were very deep and weren't creating danger. By putting Aurélien in the double pivot, we gained control and created more chances," Alonso explained after the match. That tactical flexibility can only work with a player like Tchouaméni, who knows how to adapt without losing his essence.
The future is promising
Xabi Alonso trusts Tchouaméni and expects the recovery of Camavinga, Carvajal, and Militao for a strong team next season.
Meanwhile, the Club World Cup continues and Madrid is already thinking about the quarterfinal clash against Borussia Dortmund in New York. With Tchouaméni as one of the pillars, the white team has reasons to be excited.