Real Madrid’s preparations for Saturday’s La Liga showdown with Valencia have been marked by a notable absence in the midfield. Aurelien Tchouameni did not participate in the team’s training session following their return from Greece, according to reports from MARCA. The French international was deliberately rested by manager Jose Mourinho during the 3-2 comeback victory over AEK Athens in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday. This tactical decision allowed the squad to manage workload while securing a crucial group stage win, though it leaves the technical core of the midfield uncertain for the upcoming domestic fixture.
Aurelien Tchouameni misses session after AEK Athens rest; Arda Guler returns to full training.
The contrast in recovery protocols between the two rested players is stark. While Tchouameni remained sidelined from the group session, Arda Guler rejoined his teammates for normal training activities today. Guler’s return to full participation signals his readiness to feature against Valencia, providing Mourinho with more options in the creative department. The club aims to extend their recent winning streak and close out the matchday with a high before the upcoming international break, making the availability of key midfielders a critical factor in their tactical setup.
With the La Liga title race intensifying, every point against Valencia is vital for Los Blancos. The absence of Tchouameni from the pitch today raises questions about his physical condition or whether it is a precautionary measure to ensure he is fully fresh for the weekend. As the squad focuses on tactical drills and fitness, the coaching staff will likely assess Tchouameni’s status in the coming days. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the French midfielder can return to the starting lineup, as his presence is central to Real Madrid’s control in the middle of the park.
Source: Yahoo Sports
