Carlo Ancelotti faces mounting challenges as ill fortune strikes his squad with three injuries in a single day—an unprecedented scenario in the football realm. This predicament leaves Real Madrid grappling with significant issues in shaping their midfield upon the return from international duty. Aurélien Tchouaméni, following in the footsteps of Ferland Mendy, has exited the French national team camp in Clairefontaine. After being assessed by Franck Le Gall, the French team’s physician, it was deemed prudent for him to return to Madrid for further examination. Didier Deschamps, upon confirming Tchouaméni’s withdrawal, has opted to replace him with Mattéo Guendouzi.
Tchouaméni is afflicted with discomfort in the metatarsal of his left foot following the match against Betis. This ailment will preclude him from participating in the forthcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures for the Bleus, against Italy at the Parc des Princes on Friday and Belgium in Lyon three days later. This injury affects the same foot that sidelined him at the end of the previous season, causing him to miss the Champions League final at Wembley. The midfielder endured two injuries last season that caused him to miss a total of 16 matches (both for Real Madrid and France). The club has informed MARCA that the French Federation has heeded the advice of Real Madrid’s medical staff and will permit both Tchouaméni and Mendy to return to Madrid for treatment. They will commence their recovery at Valdebebas tomorrow morning and, while not ruled out, are doubtful for the fixture in San Sebastián.
A scarcity of midfield resources
Consequently, the Italian manager will need to perform intricate maneuvers to assemble his lineup, given the unavailability of four (Bellingham, Camavinga, Ceballos, and Tchouaméni) out of seven midfielders (Valverde, Modric, and Arda Güler). “It’s never ideal, as it depletes the squad, particularly those who traveled to South America and will struggle to return in peak condition. My primary concern is avoiding further injuries, as that remains the greatest threat. Aside from that, the players are fairly accustomed to frequent matches,” Carlo remarked about the break, which has already claimed three casualties before the games have even commenced.
