Throughout the season, Real Madrid has had to relocate several players due to multiple injuries and poor performance within the squad. One of those players who has shown his versatility and sacrificed himself for the team is Aurélien Tchouaméni. The Frenchman has been forced to play center back in multiple matches, but he has already made it clear to Xabi Alonso where he wants to play.
Tchouaméni wants to play in midfield
Real Madrid face their second match of the Club World Cup against Pachuca tonight at 9 p.m., and in the run-up to the game, Aurélien Tchouaméni spoke to the press about his position on the pitch and his conversation with Xabi Alonso on the subject. “No, not really. I’m here to help the team. And if he asks me to play defense, I won’t say no. I’ll do it without any problem. Of course, I prefer midfield, but we’ll see…”
He also had a funny moment when asked by the press what Xabi Alonso asks of him in midfield. “Well… I can’t tell you everything (smiles). But a lot of intensity with and without the ball; helping the team out of the back, pressing… And touching the ball, creating chances.”
Need for a signing
The player was also friendly when asked about the team’s poor performance in midfield and whether or not they need to sign a player for this position. “What do you think? (I think another midfielder would be good,” replied the journalist) Then you have to ask the president or the coach. That’s not my job, I have to play in midfield and give my all for the team,“ he said, before adding, ”We have an incredible squad, with lots of players and quality. But if people want to say that, there’s nothing we can do. We’ll have to ask the president and the coach what they think.”
Work and feelings within the team
Tchouaméni also spoke about the team’s feelings after a difficult season. “It’s difficult because the way we went out of the Champions League was tough. We came here wanting to win this trophy because we know how demanding this club is.” It was a hard blow for the team, which is still hungry and needs titles. “The truth is that we have to win. It was very hard for us to watch the Champions League final from home. So I repeat: we want this competition.” To win, you have to work hard, and the Frenchman spoke about how training is going. “Xabi plays a lot with us. Intensity, rhythm. That’s what I can tell you.”
Advice for Mastantuono
The team is also currently in the process of signing Mastantuono, who will be a new addition to a crowded midfield when he arrives in August. Tchouaméni had some advice for the young Argentine player. “Enjoy it. Playing here is a pleasure and there are many who would like to do so, so enjoy it.“
Analysis of the opponent
Focusing on the present, the midfielder spoke about the team’s next opponent, Pachuca, whom they will face tonight. ”They are a great team. We played against them in December and we know they have the ability to make it very difficult for us. We are focused and eager.”