Real Madrid News
Real Madrid fear ‘high-grade muscle tear’ for superstar; could miss CL quarterfinals if confirmed
In a concerning bit of development, ESPN journalist Rodra reports that there is maximum concern at Real Madrid regarding the injury of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The 33-year-old shot-stopper had to be taken off during the game against Manchester City last night due to adductor muscle overload.
While medical tests are scheduled for tomorrow, Real Madrid initially believed that the problem was nothing but an overload based on the early sensations at the Etihad Stadium.
Concern growing
But, as per the update from journalist Rodra, Real Madrid are now very concerned about the situation as they fear a ‘high-grade muscle tear’ to Courtois.
Definitive tests will take place tomorrow, once the inflammation reduces, things do not seem to be looking good for the veteran goalkeeper.
An alternative report from AS reports that the Belgian international is practically ruled out of the weekend’s La Liga clash against neighbours Atletico Madrid.
The Spanish outlet suggests that initial examinations point toward a tear in his right adductor, rather than a simple muscle overload.
From there, the key question is the severity – a high-grade tear could cast doubts about his participation in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals against Bayern Munich next month.
After the game against Atletico Madrid on 22 March, Real Madrid break for the international window, before returning to action on 4 April against Mallorca.
A few days later, they take on Bayern Munich in the first leg of the quarterfinals (7/8 April) before facing them again a week later (14/15 April), after a La Liga clash versus Girona (11/12 April).
Issue began at warm-up
According to the report from AS, Courtois’ discomfort started even before the match against Manchester City.
During the warm-up, the Real Madrid heavyweight felt a slight twinge – manageable at the time. He informed the medical staff in the dressing room, and after a quick assessment, he decided to play.
However, at half-time, with the game in a favorable situation, the decision was made to substitute him to avoid aggravating the problem. At that point, it seemed like a minor overload. But now, it may be more serious.
Real Madrid News
Stats: Aurelien Tchouameni makes instant impact in first Real Madrid start under Mourinho
Aurelien Tchouameni made his first start of the season for Real Madrid in Wednesday’s 3-2 win over Elche, and his return offered Jose Mourinho an early reminder of what the French midfielder can bring to the side.
After missing the opening part of the campaign with a pre-season injury, Tchouameni had only managed limited minutes – 11’ vs Inter Milan and 21’ vs Rayo Vallecano – before being trusted from the start at the Estadio Martinez Valero.
For what it is worth, he looked comfortable from the outset.
Rather than needing time to settle, the midfielder gave Real Madrid control without the ball right from the beginning, helping organise the press and closing spaces between Elche’s midfield and attack.
Tchouameni brings control back to Real Madrid midfield
Tchouameni’s numbers show how influential he was defensively. He finished with four recoveries, with only Trent Alexander-Arnold, Marc Cucurella and Arda Guler recording more for Real Madrid on the night.
He also made two interceptions, contributed to two blocked shots and registered six defensive actions. His two tackles showed his willingness to step into challenges, while he was not dribbled past once.
Furthermore, his aerial numbers were less impressive. Tchouameni contested only one aerial duel and failed to win it.
On the ground, though, he won both of his challenges and repeatedly disrupted Elche’s attempts to play through the middle.
That defensive presence became particularly useful when Elche tried to build attacks between the lines. Tchouameni was often there to break up moves before they could develop.
Tchouameni also impressed with the ball
Notably, the Frenchman’s performance was not limited to defensive work. Tchouameni completed 95% of his passes and produced two key passes.
He was also highly reliable with longer distribution, completing three of his four long passes.
That ability to switch play and move the ball forward without taking unnecessary risks helped Real Madrid maintain their attacking rhythm.
The only real concern came late in the game. Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal advantage as their intensity dropped, allowing Elche to level before Carlos Espi restored the lead.
Still, Tchouameni’s individual display was encouraging. He lasted until the 85th minute despite having barely played this season, suggesting that he could be ready for the all-important Madrid Derby this weekend.
