Carlo Ancelotti tips ‘amazing’ Aurélien Tchouaméni to step up as Real Madrid’s defensive crisis deepens

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has tipped midfield star Aurélien Tchouaméni to thrive in a defensive role over the weeks ahead.

Ancelotti of course guided his side back into action on Thursday evening, making the trip to Alavés for their La Liga clash.

When all was said and done, Los Blancos secured a crucial three points, reclaiming their spot atop the table owing to a last-gasp winner from Lucas Vázquez.

On an otherwise positive night, though, one fresh concern was forthcoming for Real, on the personnel front.

This came after Nacho was shown a straight red card, early in the second half.

In the process, the Spanish veteran added further to what is already a full-blown crisis at the heart of Los Merengues’ backline, amid long-term layoffs for both Éder Militão and David Alaba.

Speaking to the media post-match, Carlo Ancelotti was therefore drawn on his contingency plans, ahead of an incoming three-game ban for Nacho.

And the Italian went on to reiterate his belief that Aurélien Tchouaméni is more than ready to step into a temporary role in central defence, after doing so to impressive effect at the Estadio Mendizorrotza.

“Tchouaméni has all the qualities to be one of the best centre-backs,” Ancelotti began, as cited by Fabrizio Romano. “I’m sure he will get angry about this but… he’s amazing as a centre-back! He can play as a midfielder and as a defender, he’s great.”

Conor Laird | GSFN