Real Madrid brought an end to their three-game winless run with a 3-1 victory over Espanyol at Santiago Bernabeu. Things had started on the wrong foot once again, as Joselu gave the visitors the lead in the 8th minute of the match. But strikes from Vinicius Junior, Eder Militao and Marco Asensio sealed the three points for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who have cut the gap between themselves and Barcelona, even though Xavi’s team have played a game less than their rivals.
While it was a good day for Real Madrid overall, not every player was at their blistering best. Aurelien Tchouameni was one who received some criticism for his display against Espanyol.
Tchouameni has not looked at his best after returning from the World Cup. And now, his place as a nailed on starter is under serious doubt to say the least.
Ancelotti came to the defence of the Frenchman after the game against Espanyol though. As reported by Real Madrid’s official website, the Italian manager said:
"“I thought Tchouameni played well. He lost the ball a couple of times, these kinds of games are not ideal for him. He’s got fantastic defensive attributes, when we have to keep the ball, he’s not going to give his best. He’s in good shape and we’re going to have faith in him for upcoming games.”"
Ancelotti defends struggling Real Madrid star after 3-1 win over Espanyol
It has been a season of two halves for Tchouameni till now. He was absolutely brilliant in the first half of the season and did not let Real Madrid feel the absence of Casemiro, who left in the summer to join Manchester United.
After returning from the World Cup, things have not really gone his way though. He has struggled with fitness and form over the past few months.
One also has to wonder whether missing a penalty for France in the final of the World Cup had an effect on Tchouameni. If it did, it would only be natural.
There is no question about his quality though. He proved himself in the first half of the season itself. Now, it is about giving him the time to play his way back into form. Tchouameni is still a young player and these kind of things are expected and nothing out of the ordinary. Given time, he should be just fine.