With Aurélien Tchouaméni sidelined, Xabi Alonso faces a crucial decision regarding Real Madrid‘s defensive midfield setup. The upcoming matches against Rayo Vallecano and Elche present an opportunity for either Eduardo Camavinga or Federico Valverde to fill the void left by the Frenchman. Tchouaméni is expected to return for the Champions League clash against Olympiakos, but until then, both players are eager to showcase their abilities in key roles.
Eduardo Camavinga, who has had a tumultuous start to the season, is seen as a strong candidate to reclaim a position he knows well. After a disappointing performance on the right flank against Liverpool, the former Rennes star is poised to return to his natural role in the midfield. Carlo Ancelotti previously relied on him during pivotal moments, including the 2024 Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund. However, injuries and inconsistencies have hindered his progress in recent months. At just 22 years old, Camavinga has the chance to reignite his career with a standout performance.
Valverde’s Versatility
On the other hand, Federico Valverde is also in contention. Despite suffering a minor injury during the match at Anfield, he is fit to play against Vallecano. With Trent Alexander-Arnold back from injury, Valverde’s stint as a right-back may come to an end, allowing him to return to his preferred midfield role. Last season, he demonstrated his adaptability by playing in various positions, including 15 times as a right-back. Notably, Valverde scored two of his eleven goals and provided four assists while playing in that role, highlighting his remarkable versatility.
Challenges Ahead
However, Valverde has expressed discomfort with playing as a defender. He acknowledged this struggle after the Liverpool defeat, stating, “I need to improve as a full-back. I’m trying to make the most of this position and learn from it. I should have pushed forward more and created more chances; I was a bit shaky defensively.” Nevertheless, he remains committed to contributing wherever needed. Against Rayo Vallecano, he may find himself playing as a deep-lying midfielder—a position that doesn’t fully align with his style but could benefit Alonso’s tactical setup.
The absence of Tchouaméni may be brief, but it offers both Camavinga and Valverde a crucial opportunity to prove their worth in Real Madrid’s lineup. As they prepare for these upcoming fixtures, fans will be keenly watching how each player adapts and seizes this moment.
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