Tchouaméni’s chances improve ahead of the Inter clash

Aurélien Tchouaméni appeared highly unlikely to be available for Real Madrid’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan. The situation has now become slightly more positive. The French midfielder trained with the group for a second consecutive day and, according to AS, his chances of making the squad have increased.

That does not mean he is ready to start. Madrid are handling his recovery cautiously and have no intention of trying to replace several weeks of lost preparation with one demanding European night.

A SECOND SESSION WITH THE TEAM

Tchouaméni trained without strapping and reportedly showed no sign of renewed discomfort. The pain he had been dealing with since the World Cup is said to have disappeared, but he still needs time to regain match fitness.

His chances of receiving a call-up were considered close to zero a day earlier. Another positive session has brought him back into contention, although the final decision will depend on his physical response and the assessment of Madrid’s medical staff.

José Mourinho is not expected to take an unnecessary risk simply to add another option to the bench. The season has only just started, and keeping Tchouaméni available over the coming months matters more than forcing an early return.

A START REMAINS OFF THE TABLE

Even if Tchouaméni is included in the squad, a place in the starting eleven is virtually ruled out. Saturday’s LaLiga meeting with Rayo Vallecano remains a more realistic target for his full return.

Madrid must therefore prepare their midfield for Inter without relying on the Frenchman. Eduardo Camavinga, Bernardo Silva and Arda Güler are unavailable through suspension, leaving Mourinho with limited natural options in the centre of the pitch.

The shortage makes Tchouaméni’s progress particularly welcome, but Madrid’s response has been measured. A difficult selection problem will not be allowed to dictate the recovery of an important player.

THIAGO AND ENDRICK ALSO MAKE PROGRESS

Thiago Pitarch and Endrick also completed another session with the group. Both appear more likely than Tchouaméni to make the matchday squad, although neither is expected to start.

Raúl Asencio, Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo are confirmed absentees. Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is also a doubt after missing training with flu symptoms.

Tchouaméni’s return to group work is an important step, but Real Madrid have not confirmed his inclusion against Inter. For now, his chances have improved. The decision itself is still pending.