Real Madrid’s recent challenges in the Champions League have taken an unfortunate turn, with midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni now expected to miss an entire month due to an ankle sprain.
This setback, along with injuries to other key players, leaves manager Carlo Ancelotti facing a depleted squad at a critical juncture. Following a 3-1 loss to AC Milan, the team’s prospects are under strain as it works to regain its footing in both La Liga and the Champions League.
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Tchouaméni’s Injury Details: A Heavy Blow for Madrid’s Midfield
The injury occurred during Madrid’s midweek defeat to Milan, where Tchouaméni was taken off at half-time with an ankle issue. Shortly after, Madrid issued a statement confirming that Tchouaméni “has been diagnosed with a sprain in his left ankle.” Sources indicate the French international is expected to miss about four weeks of action, which sidelines him from a series of pivotal fixtures.
The timing of Tchouaméni’s absence could not be worse for Madrid. In the next few weeks, the team faces crucial La Liga clashes, including a high-stakes match against Osasuna as they aim to close the gap with Barcelona at the top of the table. Additionally, Tchouaméni will be unavailable for Champions League action, including an important tie against Liverpool, further complicating Madrid’s road to advancement.
Replacements and Tactical Adjustments: Eduardo Camavinga to Step Up
With Tchouaméni out, Eduardo Camavinga is expected to fill the void in the midfield. Camavinga, though versatile, will need to deliver consistently strong performances in Tchouaméni’s absence to stabilize Madrid’s midfield. Carlo Ancelotti may also call on Rodrygo, who recently returned from injury, to add depth in a possible formation adjustment that could provide additional support to Camavinga.
Federico Valverde, another key midfielder, also sustained a knock in the same match, making his status for Saturday’s game against Osasuna uncertain. Valverde, taken off with lower back pain, remains questionable, potentially creating a more challenging scenario for Ancelotti in configuring the squad. Should Valverde also be sidelined, Madrid may need to dip deeper into their roster, testing the depth and resilience of their midfield lineup.
Madrid’s Injury Woes: A Season Plagued with Setbacks
Real Madrid has been navigating an unusually challenging season, with injuries consistently disrupting their campaign. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and full-back Dani Carvajal were both unavailable for the match against Milan, while veteran center-back David Alaba is still in recovery following an ACL tear. With Tchouaméni and possibly Valverde joining the injury list, the team’s options are thinning out, which could affect their overall performance and continuity on the field.
This season, Madrid’s struggles extend beyond injuries. After suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to Barcelona in El Clásico, the team has appeared under pressure. In the Champions League, they have lost two out of four group-stage matches, including a recent defeat against Milan and an earlier 1-0 loss to Lille. Their remaining two Champions League games have not been straightforward, with Madrid only managing wins after making late comebacks against Stuttgart and Borussia Dortmund. These mixed results have intensified scrutiny on Ancelotti, who is now tasked with steering Madrid back to a competitive edge in both leagues.
Madrid’s Upcoming Fixtures Without Aurélien Tchouaméni
Tchouaméni’s injury rules him out of several critical matches. In La Liga, he will miss games against Osasuna, Leganés, Getafe, and Athletic Club, along with the Champions League clash against Liverpool. His absence is also a setback for the French national team, as he will miss upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel and Italy. With Madrid already trailing Barcelona by nine points in La Liga, each of these matches is crucial for their hopes to narrow the gap at the top of the table.
If Valverde also misses games, Ancelotti’s options could be further limited. The manager has stated that “a win is the only option” for the Osasuna game, which will be essential for Madrid to maintain momentum in La Liga.
Ancelotti’s Challenge: Balancing Expectations Amid Limited Resources
With the pressure mounting, Carlo Ancelotti faces the difficult task of managing his squad through the ongoing injury crisis while keeping the team’s performance on track. The loss to Milan only highlighted Madrid’s vulnerabilities, and Ancelotti must now strategize with limited options. “The injuries have come at a bad time,” he acknowledged, as he looks to navigate Madrid through a string of challenging fixtures.
Despite the setbacks, Madrid will aim to capitalize on the talent available, including recent returnees like Rodrygo. Maintaining focus on immediate wins in La Liga is essential for staying competitive with Barcelona, who lead the table. However, with Madrid’s roster stretched thin, it remains to be seen how Ancelotti will adapt his tactics to compensate for the gaps left by key absences.
An Uphill Battle for Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s injury crisis marks a testing period for both the players and coaching staff. With Tchouaméni out and other injuries lingering, the coming weeks will reveal Madrid’s ability to adapt under pressure. Ancelotti’s choices in midfield replacements and tactical adjustments will be instrumental in determining the team’s ability to withstand their current challenges. For Real Madrid, these matches are more than a test of skill; they are a measure of resilience as the squad fights to stay in contention in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Read More: What’s Going Wrong for Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid?
How long is Aurélien Tchouaméni expected to be out due to injury?
Tchouaméni is set to miss about a month of action after spraining his left ankle in Real Madrid’s Champions League loss to AC Milan.
Who might replace Tchouaméni in Real Madrid’s midfield?
Eduardo Camavinga is expected to step into Tchouaméni’s role, with Rodrygo as a possible tactical addition following his recent return from injury.
Which key games will Tchouaméni miss during his recovery?
Tchouaméni will be sidelined for six matches, including critical La Liga games against Osasuna, Leganés, and Athletic Club, and a Champions League clash with Liverpool.
How is Real Madrid’s overall injury situation this season?
Madrid’s roster has been heavily impacted, with key players like Thibaut Courtois, Dani Carvajal, and David Alaba also dealing with injuries, challenging Carlo Ancelotti’s squad depth.
