Aurélien Tchouaméni has been one of Real Madrid's biggest disappointments this season. Despite having opportunities, his performance has been below what was desired. He hasn't managed to be influential in the midfield or as a substitute in defense.
As a pivot, he has played with too many precautions. He has lacked vision, precision, and courage in decision-making with the ball. His version as a center-back has also shown many tactical weaknesses.
Tchouaméni and doubts about the future
Florentino Pérez bet heavily on him in 2022, paying 80 million to Monaco. Today, that expenditure generates more doubts than certainties. Trust has been eroded by his scant evolution.
For the next season, his presence in the starting eleven is not assured. The arrival of Xabi Alonso, with a renewed idea of play, could complicate things even more for him. His profile doesn't quite fit what is demanded of the modern pivot.
Xabi Alonso wants changes in the midfield
The Basque coach is designing a scheme with a much more creative midfielder. Someone capable of managing the tempo, connecting lines, and taking risks. A pure organizer that strays from Tchouaméni's physical and positional profile.
That's why several experts have pointed out that the Frenchman could lose prominence. One of the most forceful has been Julio Maldonado, Maldini. The analyst hasn't held back when talking about the future of the white midfielder.
"I don't know if Tchouaméni is going to reach the level..."
During a recent intervention, Maldini was very clear: "Madrid needs a more organizing midfielder because Madrid doesn't have one." The journalist was direct, without beating around the bush, and left a big question mark in the air.
"Kroos left, and I don't know if Tchouaméni is going to reach the level to be an undisputed starter," he added. A statement that reflects the existing concern. For Maldini, Xabi Alonso's great challenge is to find that organizer that is so needed.
¿CÓMO SERÁ EL REAL MADRID DE XABI ALONSO? LOS CENTRALES, ARNOLD, VINICIUS, MBAPPÉ... ¿FUERA RODRYGO?
Maldini points to the market as a solution
The expert also indicated that Real Madrid must move quickly. The gap Kroos will leave will be difficult to fill with internal resources alone. According to him, Xabi Alonso will request reinforcements that fit his vision of play.
It won't be easy to find someone who combines technique, intelligence, and leadership. But it is essential if Madrid wants to compete at the highest level. That could relegate Tchouaméni to a more secondary role.
Everything points to a busy summer at Santiago Bernabéu. With Kroos's departure, a new era opens in the engine room. Xabi Alonso will be key in the strategic decisions of the midfield.