Tchouaméni returns to training but remains unlikely to face Inter

Aurélien Tchouaméni is back in group training with Real Madrid, although his return to the pitch at Valdebebas does not necessarily mean that he will be available for the Champions League opener against Inter.

Real Madrid officially confirmed that Tchouaméni, Endrick and Thiago Pitarch worked with the team during Sunday’s session. José Mourinho’s squad have begun preparations for Tuesday’s meeting with Inter at the Santiago Bernabéu, with kick-off scheduled for 9:00 pm CEST.

CLOSE TO A RETURN, BUT NOT THERE YET

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Tchouaméni completed most of the session but did not take part in the entire programme. The French midfielder has entered the final stage of his recovery, and Madrid are determined to avoid rushing him back and triggering a setback.

As a result, Tchouaméni is considered unlikely to play against Inter. The report adds that he may not even be included in the matchday squad. Mourinho has yet to make an official decision, and the club have not announced their squad for the game.

The coach had already expressed doubts about Tchouaméni’s availability before the La Liga match against Real Betis. Sunday brought genuine progress, but Madrid are sensibly refusing to treat one encouraging training session as proof that the midfielder is ready for a demanding European fixture.

MOURINHO’S MIDFIELD OPTIONS REMAIN LIMITED

Tchouaméni’s possible absence carries extra weight because Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Güler and Bernardo Silva are suspended. Mourinho previously acknowledged that Federico Valverde could be the only natural first-team midfielder available to face Inter.

Jude Bellingham could be moved into a deeper role, while Trent Alexander-Arnold and academy players offer alternative solutions. Thiago Pitarch has also returned to group work, but expecting him to start such a difficult match immediately after a lengthy absence would be a considerable demand.

Endrick’s return gives Mourinho another attacking option. Ferland Mendy, Éder Militão, Rodrygo and Raúl Asencio, meanwhile, are still following their respective recovery programmes.

Tchouaméni’s presence in training is an important step and a welcome sign for Real Madrid. The club’s handling of the situation is equally important. His recovery is approaching the finish line, but Madrid have no intention of forcing him across it before his body is ready.