Real Madrid News
Real Madrid fully trust midfielder despite recent decline in form – Romano
One of the critical factors in sealing Toni Kroos’s season-long renewal with Real Madrid was said to be the radical change in position. The German international had operated as an interior midfielder for most of his career but began to see the defensive midfield as his next step as he aged.
Kroos’ newfound role as the pivot coupled with Eduardo Camavinga’s exponential rise and consistent displays in the position leaves Carlo Ancelotti with options aplenty at the base of midfield. However, one player who has stood to lose is Aurelien Tchouameni.
The French midfielder has seen a steep fall in prominence after the FIFA World Cup and no longer features as a regular starter for the team’s big games. His role in the side has been reduced to that of a squad player utilised for rotation.
According to reports from Fabrizio Romano on OnAmp (h/t Madrid Xtra), Los Blancos trust Tchouameni as a crucial player for the future regardless of his bearish run right now. The management see him as a fantastic talent.
Clubs like Liverpool continue to explore the possibility of snatching the star from Real Madrid come June. However, Jurgen Klopp’s side know that the player is unavailable for all practical purposes.
The 22-year-old former Monaco star has made 25 La Liga appearances for the Merengues this season, albeit starting only on 19 occasions. In that duration, he has provided four assists and created four big chances.
Defensively, Tchouameni has been nothing short of a sensation. His average numbers per ninety minutes stand at 1.5 interceptions, two tackles, 1.6 clearances and close to six duals won.
The youngster started Real Madrid’s game against Celta Vigo at the weekend and played the full ninety minutes with poise and class. He is expected to start midweek against Girona as well, especially with Ancelotti confirming that Camavinga is dealing with a fitness problem.
Real Madrid set out on a mission to change the minds of Dani Ceballos, Marco Asensio and Nacho Fernandez earlier this week. After all, all three players were contemplating a departure from the club for a gross lack of minutes.
Los Blancos’ latest approach seems to have impacted Ceballos’ position in a positive fashion. However, Fabrizio Romano reveals that it has not changed Marco Asensio’s mind.
According to the Italian journalist, the Spaniard will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season as a free agent.
Of the numerous options on his table, he sees Aston Villa and PSG to be the best bets. In fact, Villa have already submitted their opening bid for the player as revealed by Fabrizio Romano once again.
After a dramatic final day of action in the Premier League, Aston Villa finished in the European spots and will participate in the UEFA Conference League next season. While a move to the English club would be a steep step down, it will see Asensio receive regular playing time.
Paris-Saint Germain, on that front, appears the more probable destination. The French club are close to losing both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr ahead of the new season, and Asensio would thus fit in as a starting quality winger. Moreover, they offer Champions League football.
The Spaniard’s role at Real Madrid this season has not been minor by any means considering his contributions. In 30 La Liga appearances, the 27-year-old has scored nine goals and provided six assists in addition to creating nine big chances and averaging 1.4 key passes per game.
However, that does not satisfy the winger who wishes to be a starter week in and week out. His departure in June appears to be now written in stone, and the club should feel hard done to not make a penny of his move.
Many in Los Blancos’ administration see Brahim Diaz as a direct replacement for the Spanish international if he leaves. Needless to say, the AC Milan star’s future will closely depend on Asensio’s situation.
