Aurelien Tchouaméni's recent comments have had a significant impact on the club's dressing room, especially at a time when the team is facing significant injuries. In an interview to the French national team, Tchouaméni mentioned his preference for playing in midfield.
This comment has caused surprise and astonishment among some of his teammates, especially after Dani Carvajal's injury and David Alaba's absence.
Tchouaméni: the center of controversy | Europa Press
Antonio Rüdiger is Upset
One player who doesn't understand this stance is Antonio Rüdiger. The German defender believes that this is not the right time for a player to talk about his individual preferences. The current situation of the team requires greater solidarity and commitment from everyone.
With several key players out of action, the team needs all members of the squad to be willing to make sacrifices. In other words: if you want to play for Real Madrid, you'd put on the goalkeeper's gloves if necessary.
Tchouaméni's words, "I prefer to play in the middle", can be interpreted as a selfish gesture in this context. This has generated discomfort within the group. In a team like Real Madrid, where pressure and demands are constant, statements like these may not be well received, especially in times of difficulty.
Rüdiger: one of Real Madrid's soldiers | Europa Press
It's not surprising that this situation has sparked speculation about the French player's future at the club. Despite being one of the most expensive transfers at the time, Tchouaméni is no longer considered untransferable by the Real Madrid board. Florentino Pérez hasn't been too happy with the French midfielder's performances for some time now. Now, he may have more reasons to think about a sale in the summer.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has shown his willingness to use Tchouaméni in defensive positions in emergency situations in the past. Although the Frenchman prefers to occupy his natural position in midfield, the manager is likely to continue to opt to place him where the team needs him most.
What is clear is that the Real Madrid dressing room now needs to be more supportive than ever. Without Carvajal, and with Alaba not arriving until 2025, it's time to leave arguments behind and play as a united team. If Tchouaméni has to play as a center-back, then so be it.
