Real Madrid lost to Barcelona in a match in which the Whites once again showed significant problems in defense and, once again, it became clear that Aurélien Tchouaméni cannot play in this position again, which only serves to cast doubt on his quality as a top-level player for the Whites.
Tchouaméni cannot play center back
Tchouaméni has been one of Carlo Ancelotti‘s wild cards this season. He was already one last year, playing many games at center back, but the circumstances were completely different: with Carvajal, Rudiger, and Mendy at 100%, the French midfielder was more protected when playing in central defense. But this season, with the defense in tatters, it has become clear that he should not and cannot be a solution for Real Madrid.
Proof of this was the match against Barcelona, where he was outplayed in many aspects of defensive play by an opponent who constantly sought out his weakness at the back. In fact, he could have been sent off in the second half in a play that the referee could have interpreted as a red card for being the last defender and denying a clear scoring opportunity, but luckily for him, he didn’t.
The center-back position has been a headache for the French international, who for a time during the season was questioned and booed by the Santiago Bernabéu crowd. Fortunately for him, the player was able to redeem himself when he returned to his natural position, proving that he is a more than valid player for the squad.
Real Madrid forced to strengthen its defense
Real Madrid cannot afford a third consecutive season with defensive problems. It is true that, if all the center backs recover, Real Madrid would have Asencio, Rudiger, Militao, and Alaba. However, the physical condition of the latter two after their injuries, and the fear of possible relapses next season—which cannot be ruled out given what has happened in the past two seasons—forces Real Madrid to strengthen its defense with at least one more player.
Center backs who could join Real Madrid
Real Madrid is considering several signings in defense for next season. On the list are Dean Huijsen, Jonathan Tah, and William Saliba. The Frenchman is the one the board likes the most, but his high price tag makes him prohibitive. Jonathan Tah is the least liked of the three, mainly because of his age, 29. However, he would come for free from Bayer Leverkusen and the arrival of Xabi Alonso could be an incentive for him.
Dean Huijsen is the one who has caused the most buzz. Real Madrid did not seem willing to pay around $60 million for his transfer, but as the season has ended, the possibility of his arrival is more than real. His youth, combined with his experience and the role he has taken on in his team, encourage Real Madrid to sign a player who could spend more than a decade in the white shirt.
What is clear is that Real Madrid cannot afford to face competitions without guarantees in defense and be forced to play with Tchouameni at the back. Florentino Pérez is obliged to sign players to help Real Madrid regain competitiveness in one of the most important positions in the squad. Without a solid defense, you cannot win major championships, as Real Madrid itself has demonstrated in recent years and has made clear this season.