Songs were sung about Aurelien Tchouameni’s abilities in defensive midfield at the beginning of the 2022/23 season. After all, the French prodigy covered splendidly for Casemiro, helping the club move on from the Brazilian legend with ease.

However, everything changed after the World Cup in Qatar. Tchouameni, whose market value stands at €85 million, was a regular starter for Didier Deschamps’ setup in the mega-event.

Once he returned to Real Madrid after France’s final heartbreak against Argentina, the 23-year-old struggled to reach the heights he had in the first half of the season. His form declined, he had fitness issues as well and gradually he lost his place in the lineup.

Now, given the riches in midfield Real Madrid have, Tchouameni has been linked with a summer exit, with clubs from the Premier League showing an interest.

But, according to reports from Fabrizio Romano, Tchouameni will stay at Real Madrid next season. He is still considered a crucial part of the team’s setup for the present and the future.

The youngster will almost certainly have a regular role at the club in the 2023/24 campaign. However, the question boils down to the prominence he sees under Carlo Ancelotti, both as a starter and on the big nights.

After all, Eduardo Camavinga established himself as a solid option to play in the pivot position last season and is now a direct competitor for the starting spot. Reports also suggest that Ancelotti already sees the 20-year-old as a regular starter.

To compound Tchouameni’s problems, Toni Kroos has also taken significant steps towards shifting to the defensive midfield. The veteran sees his short-term future to be in a deeper role, for it will enable him to have the same impact with less running.

The pre-season, needless to say, will be a decisive factor in determining the World Cup finalist’s role next season. Given the number of options at the manager’s disposal, it will take something special for Tchouameni to win back his regular role.